KATHMANDU, June 12, 2026: National College, a Kathmandu University affiliate located in Dhumbarahi, has formally launched its Bachelor of International Relations and Diplomacy (BIRD) programme, marking what it described as a significant milestone in Nepal’s higher education landscape, according to a press release issued by the college.
The college held the inaugural ceremony for the new undergraduate programme on June 11, 2026, bringing together diplomats, academics, and experts in international affairs.
Speaking at the event, Principal of National College, Madhav Prasad Neupane, said the programme responds to the growing complexity of global affairs and the need for structured diplomatic education at the undergraduate level.
Trainers, trainees from Defence Studies of UK arrive
“Our long-standing programs in Development Studies and Social Sciences successfully integrated aspects of global affairs, but they were no longer sufficient to address the vast complexities of modern geopolitics. Historically, International Relations was perceived as an exclusive pathway tailored solely for foreign services. Today, it encompasses a multidisciplinary web of international trade, global security frameworks, climate diplomacy, and deep cultural exchange. This program is designed to cultivate future-ready global leaders,” he said.
Programme Lead and IR academic Ms. Shweta Karki said the BIRD programme adopts a Nepal-centric approach to international relations education.
“What sets the BIRD program at National College apart is its unapologetic focus on a ‘Nepal-centric International Relations and Diplomacy’ framework. Our students will not merely memorise Western-centric theories; they will dissect how a landlinked sovereign nation navigates the geopolitical space between global superpowers. We are preparing candidates to excel in competitive foreign services while cultivating vital soft skills in cross-cultural communication, conflict resolution, and international negotiation,” she said.
The event also featured remarks from Dr. Dinesh Bhattarai (Former Diplomat and Chair of the BIRD Subject Committee), Dr. Nishchal Nath Pandey (Foreign Affairs Expert), and Retired Major General Dr. Purna Bahadur Silwal, who, according to the college press release, highlighted the importance of institutionalised diplomatic training and practical learning components.
Guest of Honour Prof. Dr. Shreedhar Khatri, former Ambassador of Nepal to the United States, and Chief Guest Prof. Mahesh Banskota, former Dean of the Kathmandu University School of Arts (KUSOA), also addressed the programme launch, congratulating the institution on its academic initiative, according to the press statement.
The ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks by the Chairman of National College, Dr. Badri Dev Pandey, who expressed appreciation to Kathmandu University leadership, diplomats, and partners for their support.
The event was followed by an informal networking session among students, faculty members, diplomats, and government officials, according to the college.
