National TARA, King’s College Nepal host conclave on transformative education

KATHMANDU: The National Training and Research Academy (National TARA), in collaboration with King’s College Nepal, hosted the Conclave on Transformative Education for Next Generation of a Shared Civilization, on Monday. The event brought together renowned educators, policy enthusiasts, and influential leaders to discuss holistic education approaches, youth empowerment, and the strengthening of educational collaboration between Nepal and India.

Navita Srikant, International Development Expert, Former World Bank Global Lead, and India-Nepal Relations Specialist, highlighted the need for education that promotes skill development, holistic learning, and personal growth, reducing the necessity for youth to migrate. She underscored the importance of collaboration between Nepal and India for human capital development.

Addressing the conclave, Neeti Bhalla Saini, Principal of Mayo College Girls’ School, Ajmer, India, stressed the need for education models that equip youth with leadership, critical thinking, and resilience. "Education must evolve beyond textbooks. We must nurture leaders who understand the significance of collaboration, cultural exchange, and social responsibility," said Saini.

The event featured a panel discussion titled 'The Power of Education in Transforming Lives'. A distinguished panel of experts led an engaging discussion on empowering girls through education, inclusive learning environments, and India-Nepal educational collaboration. Moderated by Narottam Aryal, Executive Director of King’s College Nepal, the panellists included Manisha Koirala, renowned actress, philanthropist, and UNFPA Goodwill Ambassador; Neeti Bhalla Saini, Principal of Mayo College Girls’ School, Ajmer; Navita Srikant, International Development Expert, Former World Bank Global Lead, and India-Nepal Relations Specialist; and Medin Lamichhane, Principal and Chief Academic Officer at Ullens School, Nepal.

The panel discussion highlighted strategies to bridge educational gaps, enhance women’s leadership in education, and integrate best practices from diverse global models. The discussion began by outlining the need for holistic and spiritual education and the role of foundational education in promoting such a culture. The discussion also emphasised the role of family values in transforming the mindset of youth in an inclusive manner.

The panellists stressed the development of policies that revolve around a comprehensive approach to education by linking youth with the community to promote real-world learning. Further key issues were discussed by the panellists through dialogues as well as questions and insights from the audience.

The panel discussion was followed by experience sharing from young professionals Vedika Murarka, Social Entrepreneur and Co-Founder of Educase, and Devika Thapa, Policy Researcher at the Institute of Integrated Development Studies (IIDS), Nepal. They shared their experiences in leveraging education for social change and policy impact. Their inspiring journeys reinforced the conclave’s core theme: Education as a transformative tool for shaping future leaders.

Murarka has contributed to transforming education through Educase, which provides educational opportunities to those from underprivileged backgrounds. Policy researcher Thapa plays a key role in promoting gender equality and social inclusion at IIDS. Her experiences highlighted that transformative education at her foundational level shaped her personality and led her to success as a social entrepreneur.

The event concluded with remarks by Narottam Aryal, summarising the key takeaways and emphasising the need for collaborative efforts between educators, policymakers, and institutions in Nepal and India. Aryal concluded with a message to focus on transformative education through a holistic approach, aimed at shaping modern youth into future leaders.

National TARA reaffirmed its commitment to advancing transformative education models, ensuring that youth, especially girls, receive the opportunities they need to thrive in an interconnected world.