Pokhara, Nepal — 6 Falgun 2082 (February 18, 2026)
In a landmark academic engagement aimed at advancing international research and knowledge exchange, a distinguished delegation from the University of Chester, UK met Pokhara University’s senior leadership at Hotel Barahi, on 7 Falgun 2082. where both institutions explored pathways for sustained collaboration and joint academic growth.
Delegation from the University of Chester
The visiting delegation included:
- 🔹 Eunice Simmons – Vice-Chancellor, University of Chester
- 🔹 Paul Bissell – Pro Vice-Chancellor, University of Chester
- 🔹 Padam Simkhada – Dean of Global Impact and Research, University of Chester
- 🔹 Alastair Simmons – Delegation Member
- 🔹 Theodore Simmons – Delegation Member
Warm Welcome by Pokhara University Leadership
The delegation was warmly welcomed by Pokhara University’s senior leadership, led by Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Bed Raj KC and Registrar Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ajay Thapa, alongside Executive Council Member Assoc. Prof. Dr. Damaru Paneru, Executive Director (PURC) Assoc. Prof. Dr. Niranjan Shrestha, and Executive Director, International Relations Center Assoc. Prof. Dr. Deepanjal Shrestha.
Pokhara University reaffirmed its commitment to advancing quality higher education and research in Nepal, while actively exploring meaningful avenues for international partnership and joint academic development.
Key Areas of Discussion
In a constructive and forward-looking dialogue, both sides emphasized long-term cooperation, with discussions centered on:
- Research collaboration – Expanding joint research initiatives across priority disciplines
- Academic exchange – Strengthening faculty and student mobility and exchange opportunities
- Capacity building – Co-designing workshops, seminars, and advanced research training (including PhD-level support)
- Interdisciplinary engagement – Connecting Nepal–UK academic teams to address global challenges through shared expertise
The meeting highlighted the shared belief that research-led teaching, innovation, and globally relevant scholarship are most powerful when built through sustained institutional partnerships. Both universities expressed optimism about converting these discussions into concrete collaborative activities, including potential formal agreements and future joint programs.
This visit marks an important step in strengthening Nepal–UK academic ties and advancing impactful collaboration between Pokhara University and the University of Chester.
