Kavre, August 3: Kathmandu University (KU), based in Dhulikhel, has introduced the innovative concept of ‘One Local Level, One Mining Engineer’.

In order to implement this concept, KU will be offering a four-year course on geology and mining engineering, starting from the current academic session.

During an interaction session on the ‘Importance, Utility, and Academic Research of Mining Engineers in Nepal,’ organized by KU on Wednesday, Deputy Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr. Bholanath Thapa emphasized the significance of mining engineers in ensuring sustainable mining operations and conservation of natural resources. He urged local levels in Kavrepalanchowk and other districts to encourage at least one student to pursue a mining engineering degree.

Prof. Dr. Thapa stated that this initiative aims to address the shortage of mining engineers in the domestic mining industries.

On the occasion, Director General of the Department of Mines and Geology, Ram Prasad Ghimire, highlighted the scarcity of mining engineers in Nepal. He stated, “Currently, there are only four mining engineers at the Department, and no mining industries in the country have resident mining engineers. This situation itself indicates ample opportunities for mining engineers.”

Ghimire further explained that mining engineering is a relatively new and research-based discipline, offering significant potential for exploration and development.

Chief of the Department of Civil Engineering at KU, Shyamsundar Khadka, presented a working paper on the importance of mining engineers, discussing the need to hire mining engineers from China and India due to the limited availability of skilled professionals in Nepal.