Nepal ministry, science academy clash over sweeping reform plan

A significant rift has emerged between Nepal's Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation and the Nepal Academy of Science and Technology (NAST) over a proposed plan to overhaul the 33-year-old institution. The reform initiative has already drawn a complaint to the Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA).

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Intervention has become necessary. The institution was left unchecked for too long. Political interference and appointments based on power-sharing have weakened it.

Minister Mahabir Pun argues that NAST is burdened by excessive bureaucracy and political interference, necessitating fundamental changes. He points to the academy's budget, where approximately 75 percent of its Rs450 million annual expenditure goes towards staff salaries and administration. "Intervention has become necessary," Pun stated. "The institution was left unchecked for too long. Political interference and appointments based on power-sharing have weakened it."

Pun's proposed reforms include shifting the focus from academic activities to innovation, reducing administrative staff, and increasing the number of researchers. He also intends to abolish the current governance structure where the prime minister serves as chancellor and the science minister as vice-chancellor, proposing a director appointed by experts instead. "Those who have occupied positions for years will be given a respectful farewell, and we will bring in energetic young professionals," he said.

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We are going to reverse this model. We will increase the number of researchers and reduce administrative staff.

However, scientists and officials at NAST view the ministry's actions with alarm. They acknowledge the need for restructuring but believe the ministry is attempting to seize control. NAST spokesperson Ram Chandra Paudel expressed concern, stating, "When Minister Pun first took office..." The ministry has forwarded proposed amendments to the NAST Act, 1991, to the Ministry of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs, setting the stage for a potential clash over the future of the nation's premier scientific body.

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When Minister Pun first took office