Dhankuta Multipurpose Campus’ E-Library and Disability Support Center Remain Inactive
April 27, Dhankuta – Formerly a hub of higher education for the Eastern Development Region, now Koshi Province, Dhankuta Multipurpose Campus has experienced a decline in student enrollment. The expansion of campuses into rural areas has lessened its ability to attract students, resulting in decreasing admission rates. Amidst this, modern and inclusive educational facilities established by the campus have fallen into disuse. The electronic library (e-library) and disability student support center, set up with investments of millions of rupees, have yet to achieve their intended impact due to ineffective operation.
Established nearly a decade ago, the e-library aimed to promote technology-friendly teaching and learning within the campus. Despite equipping the library with 20 computers, internet access, and necessary electronic devices, these resources remain underutilized due to irregular operation. Assistant Campus Chief Dr. Shyam Prasad Wagle attributes the underuse to a lack of technical personnel. He explained, “Without an authorized librarian, the existing staff manages only basic tasks, which prevents effective utilization.”
Similarly, the Disability Student Support Center, established four years ago to provide equal educational opportunities for students with diverse abilities, is also non-operational. Although donor-supported and equipped with computers, digital displays, assistive devices, and disability-friendly infrastructure, the center remains unused. The absence of wheelchair-accessible infrastructure limits access for students with disabilities. Campus Chief Home Bahadur Basnet acknowledged that budget constraints prevent the center from functioning properly.
According to Basnet, some equipment has been transferred to other departments, while some professors are individual users of the devices. Students have reported inadequate infrastructural facilities. He suggested that campus administration should conduct awareness programs to enhance the utilization and accessibility of technology. Youth Timilsina, chairperson of the Independent Students’ Union, emphasized the necessity of developing technological literacy.
Management committee members reportedly have little awareness about the inactivity of the e-library and disability center. Milan Kumar Khadgi, chairperson of Ward No. 6 in Dhankuta Municipality, stated that he was unaware of many issues, having not been invited to relevant meetings. Khadgi criticized the campus management as weak and lacking a clear plan. Meanwhile, Niran Rai, member of the campus management committee and provincial assembly member of Koshi Province, indicated that monitoring and inspection processes aimed at educational and managerial reforms are underway.
Due to the lack of expected outcomes despite substantial investments, the modern study system and inclusive education at Dhankuta Multipurpose Campus have been adversely affected. The electronic equipment installed has become nonfunctional. Local residents and students stress that stakeholders need to prioritize not only the maintenance of infrastructure and equipment but also their effective use.
