Jaya Multiple Campus has honoured Prof. Dr. Deepak Bahadur Shakya, Vice-Chancellor of Madhesh University, for his distinguished contribution to higher education, visionary academic leadership and efforts to expand quality, inclusive and accessible learning opportunities in Nepal.

The Gokarneshwar–8, Makalbari-based campus presented Prof. Dr. Shakya with a Letter of Appreciation, a ceremonial shawl and a certificate during a farewell and recognition programme for Grade 12 graduates at Chhimeki Durbar in Narayantar on Saturday. Organised by Jaya Multiple Campus and Manakamana Secondary School, the event celebrated the Grade 12 Batch 2082 and Shakya’s long service to education.

The honour was presented by Campus Chief Bhawani Prasad Paudel, Jaya Devkota Foundation Chairperson Jagannath Devkota, programme chair Devi Ghimire and other representatives. The organisers said the recognition reflected their appreciation for Shakya’s contribution to university development, research, innovation, good governance and practical education.

Prof. Dr. Deepak Bahadur Shakya was honoured with a Letter of Appreciation for his distinguished contribution to higher education, research, innovation and institutional development.

Speakers described his leadership as a force in strengthening higher education institutions and promoting academic standards. They expressed confidence that his experience and commitment would help Madhesh University grow into a progressive, innovation-driven and internationally competitive institution.

Paudel said the campus was proud to honour an educationist who had spent decades advancing education and institution-building. He noted that recognising established academic leaders before graduating students could inspire young people to value knowledge, discipline, service and responsible leadership.

Receiving the honour, Prof. Dr. Shakya thanked the campus family and delivered a motivational address to the graduating students. He encouraged them to continue their education at least to the bachelor’s level, regardless of the discipline they choose, and to treat higher education as an investment in their future.

He also urged students to abandon the belief that success is possible only by going abroad. Nepal, he said, offers meaningful opportunities for students who develop knowledge, practical skills, confidence and a willingness to work. Drawing on practical examples, he advised the graduates to explore opportunities at home while remaining prepared to compete in an increasingly interconnected world.

Addressing Grade 12 graduates, Prof. Dr. Shakya encouraged students to pursue at least a bachelor’s degree and recognise the opportunities available within Nepal.

Prof. Dr. Shakya told students that temporary sacrifice during their academic years could create a foundation for a secure and fulfilling life. He encouraged them to reduce distractions, remain focused on their studies and develop the discipline to achieve long-term goals. His message emphasised education, research and innovation as essential tools for personal progress and national development.

The recognition also highlighted Shakya’s role in promoting Birgunj as an emerging centre of education. Widely regarded as an experienced educationist, he began pursuing a vision of developing the city as an “education hub” through the establishment of Birgunj Public College in 2057 BS.

The college reportedly began in a rented building of Kanya Secondary School with approximately 10 to 12 students. Over time, it expanded into one of Madhesh Province’s prominent educational institutions. It now operates from its own modern premises and serves more than 3,000 students, according to information shared at the programme.

The institution has earned recognition for academic performance, discipline, modern teaching approaches and its role in widening higher education opportunities in the province. Speakers referred to the college’s development as an example of how committed leadership, institutional patience and a clear educational vision can transform a small initiative into an academic establishment.

Prof. Dr. Shakya serves as the first Vice-Chancellor of Madhesh University. Under his leadership, the university has been working to build its institutional foundation despite limited resources and infrastructure. Academic activities have begun from a renovated former Nepal Trading Limited building in Birgunj, while efforts continue to develop the university as a centre for quality higher education.

The organisers said his work at Madhesh University has focused on creating systems, expanding academic possibilities and linking education with research, innovation and practical learning. They expressed hope that the university would contribute not only to Birgunj but also to the educational, social and economic advancement of Madhesh Province.

The farewell programme also recognised the achievements of Grade 12 graduates. Students who secured outstanding results in different streams received certificates of appreciation and tokens of love, while all graduating students were formally bid farewell with khadas, tika and commemorative gifts.

Paudel attributed the students’ success to effective coordination among parents, teachers, the campus administration and the learners themselves. He said the institution hoped to see its graduates become medical and information technology scholars, banking leaders, managers, legal professionals, civil servants, responsible political leaders and capable citizens contributing to the country.

He invited the outgoing students to continue their bachelor’s studies at Jaya Multiple Campus, saying the institution aimed to maintain the peaceful and family-like academic environment they had experienced during their two years of Grade 11 and 12 education.

The programme celebrated the academic achievements of Grade 12 Batch 2082 and recognised outstanding students with certificates, commemorative gifts and formal farewell honours.

Paudel said the campus has been operating the Bachelor of Computer Applications programme since 2072 BS, alongside Bachelor of Business Studies, Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Social Work programmes. He added that the institution was working to introduce Bachelor of Information Technology, BSc in Information Technology and Bachelor of Business Administration programmes, subject to university affiliation and approval.

According to the campus, students from 45 districts are currently enrolled, and its graduates have pursued successful careers in Nepal and abroad. The administration assured Grade 12 graduates that its different faculties would continue to provide career-oriented and quality education.

The programme was attended by Tribhuvan University professor Dr. Bidhur Phuyal, Nepal government Joint Secretary Hari Krishna Paudel, social campaigners Narayan Khatiwada, Uttam Pudasaini and Ram Hari Shrestha, along with representatives from education, media and social organisations. Students, parents, teachers and members of the school management committee also participated.

Cultural and musical performances added a celebratory dimension to the event. Senior singer Kunti Moktan and students presented musical numbers, while comedian Subodh Gautam performed a satirical comedy segment.

The central moment, however, remained the recognition of Prof. Dr. Shakya. By honouring him during a student farewell, Jaya Multiple Campus connected the achievements of an experienced education leader with the aspirations of a new generation, presenting his career as an example of how vision, perseverance and educational service can create lasting institutional and social impact.