London, UK – Mr. Tej Raj Khanal, Principal and Director of Radiant Montessori English Secondary School, Tikapur, Kailali, has been awarded the prestigious 'Nepal Education Award UK – Visionary Principal of the Year 2025' at a grand ceremony held on 14th October at the University of Greenwich campus in London. The award, presented by College Readers hosted by the University of Greenwich, recognizes his transformative leadership and outstanding contributions to education in western Nepal.

A Journey of Vision and Excellence

Born on 16th April 1978 in Achham, Mr. Khanal's remarkable journey exemplifies vision, perseverance, and dedicated service to education. Since assuming leadership at Radiant Montessori English Secondary School in 2009, he has transformed the institution into a beacon of academic excellence and international collaboration. Under his guidance, the school achieved the British Council's prestigious International School Award, establishing it as a pioneer in global educational standards in Nepal.

Mr. Khanal, who holds a Master's degree in English Literature from Tribhuvan University, has extended his influence beyond institutional boundaries. As a social entrepreneur and community builder, he has proudly represented Nepal at leading educational and leadership forums across the UAE, Russia, China, Qatar, Singapore, Australia, and India, elevating Nepal's voice on the global educational stage.

National Leadership and Community Service

Beyond his role at Radiant Montessori, Mr. Khanal serves as Vice Chairperson of National PABSON's Central Committee, demonstrating his commitment to advancing Nepal's educational landscape at the national level. His active engagement with organizations such as the Lions Club and the Nepal Red Cross Society reflects his dedication to community service and social development.

Rigorous Selection Process

Prof. Dr. Deepak Bahadur Shakya, Vice-Chancellor of Madhesh University and Chairperson of the Award Jury Committee, revealed the competitive nature of this year's selection process. "More than 120 nominations were meticulously reviewed this year," he stated. "The evaluation criteria encompassed academic leadership, innovation, community engagement, institutional management, and global impact. From this highly competitive field, only 29 individuals and 30 institutions were selected for recognition, making Mr. Khanal's achievement particularly noteworthy."

Distinguished Gathering of Educational Leaders

The ceremony, chaired by Mr. Bhawani Prasad Poudel, Patron of College Readers and Campus Chief of Jaya Multiple Campus, brought together an impressive assembly of educational luminaries from Nepal and the UK. Notable attendees included:

• Prof. Dr. Subarna Lal Bajracharya, Vice-Chancellor of Lumbini Buddhist University
• Dr. Tilak Ram Acharya, Registrar of Lumbini Buddhist University
• Mr. Vijay Kumar Yadav, Registrar of Madhesh University
• Mr. Tika Ram Puri, Former President of PABSON
• Mr. Subash Neupane, President of N-PABSAN
• Mr. Laxman KC, President of IEPAN
• Mr. Bhagirath Yogi, Editor-in-Chief of South Asia Time UK
• Ms. Helen McCormack, Representative from University of Greenwich

Strengthening Nepal-UK Educational Partnership

Ms. Claire Matthews, Executive Director of Marketing and Student Relations at the University of Greenwich, expressed enthusiasm about the future of Nepal-UK educational collaboration. "We are excited about expanding institutional partnerships and academic exchange programs with Nepali colleges and universities. This award ceremony symbolizes our commitment to strengthening educational ties between our nations," she stated.

Celebrating 18 Years of Educational Excellence

Mr. Jeetendra Ghimire, CEO of College Readers, reflected on the magazine's 18-year journey of recognizing educational excellence. "The Nepal Education Awards have consistently honored outstanding individuals and institutions who contribute remarkably to Nepal's educational growth and global recognition. Mr. Khanal's visionary leadership perfectly embodies the spirit of these awards," he noted.

The ceremony, expertly hosted by Mr. Keshav Nepal, Executive Editor of College Readers magazine, marked a significant milestone in recognizing educational excellence and innovation.

Looking Forward

The Nepal Education Award-UK 2025 represents more than individual recognition; it symbolizes a shared vision of innovation, collaboration, and excellence in global education. Mr. Tej Raj Khanal's achievement as Visionary Principal of the Year 2025 not only honors his personal dedication but also highlights the transformative power of educational leadership in shaping Nepal's future.

His relentless dedication to innovation, service, and holistic education has set new benchmarks for educational leadership in Nepal. As Radiant Montessori English Secondary School continues to flourish under his guidance, Mr. Khanal's vision extends beyond institutional boundaries, contributing to the broader advancement of Nepal's educational landscape on the global stage.

This international recognition reinforces the critical role of visionary principals in creating world-class educational institutions that prepare students for success in an increasingly competitive global environment while remaining deeply rooted in community service and national development.