In a heartfelt tribute, the Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) has announced a scholarship in memory of Prakriti Lamsal, a Nepali student whose tragic demise has sparked discussions on student welfare and safety. The initiative aims to provide financial assistance to deserving Nepali students pursuing education at KIIT, reinforcing the institute’s commitment to international students’ well-being.
Background: The Tragic Loss of Prakriti Lamsal
Prakriti Lamsal, a promising student from Nepal, was pursuing her studies at KIIT University when she was found dead under mysterious circumstances. Reports suggest that she was allegedly facing harassment, leading to diplomatic discussions between India and Nepal regarding the safety of international students. Her tragic passing has highlighted concerns over student security, mental health support, and the accountability of educational institutions in ensuring a safe learning environment for their students.
Lamsal’s untimely demise triggered widespread reactions from student communities, educational bodies, and government representatives in both India and Nepal. Several protests and social media campaigns called for increased safety measures and transparency in addressing complaints from international students. The Government of Nepal also formally requested Indian authorities to ensure better protection for Nepali students studying in India.
KIIT’s Initiative: A Step Toward Student Welfare
In response to this tragic incident, KIIT Founder Achyuta Samanta announced the launch of a scholarship program dedicated to Nepali students in Prakriti Lamsal’s memory. This scholarship aims to provide financial aid to Nepali students facing economic challenges while aspiring for quality education in India.
The key objectives of the scholarship include:
- Providing financial support to Nepali students facing economic hardships.
- Encouraging higher education opportunities for international students.
- Promoting cultural diversity and inclusivity within the institution.
- Ensuring student well-being through improved safety policies.
According to KIIT officials, the scholarship will help honor Prakriti Lamsal’s legacy while strengthening the bond between Indian and Nepali students. It is also expected to foster a greater sense of security and belonging for international students studying at the university.
Diplomatic Response and Student Safety Measures
Prakriti Lamsal’s death prompted a strong diplomatic response from Nepali authorities, who urged the Indian government and educational institutions to implement stricter student safety policies. As a result, KIIT has introduced several new measures to ensure a secure campus environment, including:
- Strengthening mental health support services, with additional counselors available for students.
- Enhancing security protocols and increasing surveillance around student hostels and campus premises.
- Establishing a dedicated helpline for international student grievances and complaints.
- Conducting awareness programs to educate students on their rights and available safety resources.
- Introducing mentorship and peer-support programs to help international students integrate better into campus life.
These steps are intended to create a safer environment for students and prevent similar tragedies in the future. KIIT’s administration has assured students and parents that they remain committed to fostering a safe and inclusive academic atmosphere.
Reactions from the Nepali Community and International Students
The announcement of the Prakriti Lamsal Memorial Scholarship has been met with a positive response from the Nepali community, student organizations, and education advocates.
Nepali student groups have expressed gratitude for the initiative, with some describing it as a much-needed step toward acknowledging the challenges faced by international students.
“The scholarship is a great way to remember Prakriti and support students like her who dream of studying abroad. However, we also urge institutions to take student safety more seriously,” said a spokesperson from a Nepali student association in India.
International education experts have also lauded the move, noting that it could set a precedent for other universities to establish similar support mechanisms for international students.
Eligibility Criteria and Application Process
The Prakriti Lamsal Memorial Scholarship will be available to meritorious Nepali students who meet the following criteria:
- Must be a citizen of Nepal.
- Should have secured admission to KIIT University.
- Must demonstrate academic excellence and financial need.
- Preference may be given to female students to promote gender inclusivity in higher education.
KIIT has assured that the selection process will be transparent and merit-based, with details about the application procedure set to be released on the official KIIT website in the coming weeks.
The Role of Higher Education Institutions in Student Safety
While the scholarship is a commendable initiative, student advocates stress that universities must take a proactive approach to ensure student well-being. The tragic loss of Prakriti Lamsal has emphasized the urgent need for institutions to:
- Establish clear and accessible grievance redressal systems.
- Conduct regular mental health assessments and ensure support is available to students facing stress or harassment.
- Strengthen collaborations with international embassies to address concerns related to foreign students.
- Encourage open dialogue between students and faculty to build a culture of transparency and accountability.
A Tribute That Inspires Change
The establishment of the Prakriti Lamsal Memorial Scholarship is a significant step toward honoring her memory and ensuring that no student is deprived of education due to financial constraints. While this initiative reflects KIIT’s commitment to supporting Nepali students, it also serves as a reminder that institutions must take stronger measures to prioritize student safety and well-being.By fostering a safe and inclusive academic environment, KIIT is setting an example for other universities to follow. As international student populations continue to grow, it is imperative that universities across India prioritize mental health, security, and student support systems to prevent future tragedies.
By – Nikita
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