May 04, Kathmandu - All 18 universities have eliminated the representation of professors, staff, and student organizations from their highest decision-making body, the University Senate (Census).

The change comes as part of an ordinance amending certain Nepalese laws related to universities, which mandates the removal of these representative positions from all university senates nationwide.

Previously, most universities' senates included representatives from professors' associations, staff unions, and independent student unions (SUVU). These representatives were elected from within their respective institutions, and appointments were not required for their positions.

Under the new system, instead of professors' associations' representatives, individuals selected from among the entire body of professors will now sit on the senate. Similarly, staff representatives will be chosen from the staff members, replacing the previous union-based representation.

For students, the previous arrangement where the president of the SUVU was a designated representative has been abolished. Instead, one student representative will be elected from the general student body. The authority to select this representative now rests with the university vice-chancellor.

This reform aims to streamline governance and reduce political influence within university decision-making bodies across Nepal.