National 4 (Spotlight Weekly)

‘The Full Potential Of Nepalese Scientists Has Not Been Utilized’

—Dr. DAYANANDA BAJRACHARYA

Prof. Dr. DAYANANDA BAJRACHARYA, who was recently re-appointed as vice-chancellor of the Royal Nepal Academy of Science and Technology (RONAST), received his M.Sc. degree in botany from India and Ph.D. from Germany. Having started his career as a lecturer of botany in Tribhuvan University in 1966, Dr Bajracharya became a full professor in 1977. He has served as the head of the Central Department of Botany, Dean of the Science Faculty, rector and acting vice-chancellor of Tribhuvan University. He has been a visiting research scholar in German and American universities. A nominated life member of the International Academy of Sciences, Germany, Dr. Bajracharya is a fellow of the Third World Academy of Sciences, Italy. He spoke to THAKUR AMGAI on various aspects of science and technology in Nepal. Excerpts:

What major works is RONAST currently engaged in?

RONAST is conducting research in selected areas of national importance such as biotechnology, natural product chemistry, alternate energy, environment and high-altitude sciences. Similarly, RONAST is involved in promoting science and technology (S&T) activities of Nepalese scientists and scientific societies. It also carries out programs to raise public awareness on the importance of S&T, advise His Majesty's Government in the formulation of S&T plans and policies, documentation and dissemination of S&T information and quality control of different substances.

How do you assess the present state of S&T in the country?

Nepal has made some significant progress in the field of S&T over the last few decades. There has been a steady increase in trained manpower and S&T institutions in the country. However, working facilities in most of these S&T institutions are still inadequate. As a result, the full potential of Nepalese scientists and technologists has not been utilized.

What are the major factors behind the slow development of S&T?

The government and Nepalese society do not fully understand the role and significance of S&T in the development of the country. Therefore, this sector has not received the national priority it deserves. Per capita investment in S&T is low, even by regional standards.

Do you think Nepal has adequate plans and policies to promote this sector?

Yes, I think so. Since 1982 the government has been regularly issuing S&T plan and policy in its five-year development plans. In 1988, RONAST submitted to the government a comprehensive S&T policy. Only three years ago, RONAST has submitted a 20-year plan on S&T to His Majesty's Government. In my opinion, we have not been able to fully implement these plans and policies.

What is the role of RONAST in the field of S&T?

The main role of RONAST is to function as a facilitator, catalyst and think tank to promote S&T in the country.

What role can S&T play in the development of a backward country like Nepal?

It has now been proved beyond doubt that the economic development of a country depends primarily on its S&T capability. Obviously, Nepal cannot be an exception. As His late Majesty King Birendra wrote in a message for my book "Science and Technology in Nepal" application of S&T is a valuable tool to achieve the economic well-being of the Nepalese people.

What are the major achievements of your first four-year term as RONAST vice-chancellor and what new plans do you have?

When I took over the responsibility as the vice-chancellor of RONAST four years ago, the academy was in a state of crisis. Most of the activities were being run on an ad hoc basis. There was a great strain in the relations between the authorities and the employees. The academy even lost some its property. I think, in last four years I could bring a sense of stability within the academy and restore its credibility as the apex body of S&T in the country. Over the last four years, the academy has been running smoothly. Many new programs have been started. National and international collaboration has been further strengthened. Some of the lost property has been regained. For example, we got back 80 ropanis of land we had lost. We have also developed some infrastructure, such as new laboratories, library, computer section, seminar halls, auditorium and our own administrative building at Khumaltar. During my second term, I intend to give special attention to running new programs that have direct relevance to the people and give continuity to the works that we have initiated.

What do you think was the main reason for your reappointment as RONAST vice-chancellor?

I do not know exactly. But I would assume that the authorities felt the need for continuity of leadership in the academy and that my contributions in running it smoothly for the last four years have been appreciated.