As Higher Institutions and Secondary Schools' Association Nepal (HISSAN) Kathmandu prepares for its District Convention on 8th Falgun 2082, the spotlight shines on Gopiraj Parajuli. A seasoned academician and the Principal of Precious National College, Parajuli’s journey with HISSAN spans over 13 years—evolving from a dedicated member to Secretary, Senior Vice President, and now, the consensus candidate for the Presidency.

In this candid dialogue, Parajuli reflects on the friction between private education and state policy, and unveils his blueprint for transforming HISSAN Kathmandu into a powerhouse of professional excellence.

College Readers: You have been a pillar of HISSAN since 2069 B.S. Having served as Secretary and now Senior Vice President, how has this decade-long journey prepared you for the Presidency?

Gopiraj Parajuli: It has been a journey of grassroots understanding. By serving in every capacity—from a general member to the executive board—I’ve gained a 360-degree view of our challenges. I don't just see HISSAN as an organization; I see it as a family of educators. My experience has taught me that leadership isn't about the title, but about navigating the shifting tides of Nepal’s educational landscape with resilience.

College Readers: Looking back at your tenure, what are the primary policy-level hurdles you’ve observed regarding the private educational institutions?

Gopiraj Parajuli: The most persistent challenge is the "perception gap." Every time the government changes, the goalposts for private education seem to move. There is a recurring tendency to view institutional schools and colleges with skepticism rather than as partners in nation-building.

While HISSAN has successfully intervened to protect the sector during moments of crisis, we still face a lack of policy consistency. Society has evolved drastically in the last 20 years, yet state attitudes often remain stagnant. Our goal is to bridge this communication gap and ensure that policymakers recognize our reality as the backbone of quality education in Nepal.

College Readers: Kathmandu is often called the "backbone" of central HISSAN. As you prepare to take the helm, what are your core priorities for the district?

Gopiraj Parajuli: If the heart is strong, the body thrives. To strengthen HISSAN Kathmandu, I have identified five strategic pillars:

• Membership & Unity: We must eliminate confusion among stakeholders and bring more institutions into our fold.
• Local Government Synergy: With education now decentralized, we need to ensure every municipality recognizes HISSAN as a legitimate, official partner.
• Branding through Service: Our practice books in Science and Management already reach thousands. We will expand these academic resources to further the HISSAN brand.
• Capacity Building: We aren't just an administrative body; we are a professional one. We will launch structured training programs for teachers and staff.
• Institutional Appreciation: To foster a deeper sense of belonging, I have initiated the ‘Letter of Institutional Appreciation’ to be awarded at the district level, ensuring every member feel their contribution is valued.

College Readers: There is much talk about the leadership selection process. Will the Falgun 8 convention follow the democratic election seen at the center, or are you aiming for a consensus?

Gopiraj Parajuli: While elections are a healthy sign of democracy, HISSAN’s strength has traditionally lied in consensus. Based on our current dialogues, there is a clear aspiration among colleagues to move forward unanimously. We want a team that is built on shared vision rather than competition. I am confident that on Falgun 8, we will emerge with a capable, efficient leadership team formed through mutual agreement.

College Readers: A leader is only as good as their team. Are you confident that the right individuals will step forward to support your vision?

Gopiraj Parajuli: Absolutely. Kathmandu is home to some of the most experienced educators in the country. We are bringing forward a blend of seasoned veterans and energetic innovators. We are already aligning our goals, and I am certain this team will deliver the results our member institutions expect.

College Readers: Any final message for the stakeholders of the education sector?

Gopiraj Parajuli: My tenure will be defined by organization and effectiveness. We know the problems, and we have the solutions. Together, we will not only protect the interests of private education but also elevate the standard of learning for every student under the HISSAN umbrella.