6th Annual General Meeting and Convention of AAERI Nepal
The 6th Annual General Meeting and Convention of the Association of Australian Education Representatives in Nepal (AAERI Nepal) was successfully held on August 2, 2024, with a high level of enthusiasm and participation. The event opened with a warm reception for distinguished guests, and the national anthems of Nepal and Australia set the tone for the occasion.
Introduction and Mission of AAERI Nepal
The event began with an introductory video about AAERI Nepal, emphasizing its mission to maintain credibility, integrity, and ethical standards among Nepalese education agents associated with Australian education providers. Established on June 7, 2018, AAERI Nepal operates as a non-profit organization under the Government of Nepal, dedicated to ensuring the best practices in the education sector.
Key Highlights and Presentations
Mr. Dwiraj Sharma, President of AAERI Nepal, laid out the strategic plan for the organization’s next term, from 2024 to 2026. His presentation was followed by insights from Mr. Ananta Poudyal, President of ANAA (Association of Nepalese Alumni from Australia), who spoke about the significant contributions made by Australian alumni to Nepal's development.
Representing Australian universities, Ms. Anushka Shrestha, Regional Manager for the Australian Catholic University (ACU) in Nepal, shared her journey as an international student in Australia and her current role in Nepal. Mr. Mahesh Babu Timalsina, the Immediate Past President (IPP) of AAERI Nepal, provided an overview of Nepalese perspectives on Australian education and the visa process.
Insights from the Department of Home Affairs and Educational Leaders
Representatives from the Department of Home Affairs (DHA), Ms. Jade Donney and Ms. Catherine, delivered an informative session on Migration Strategy, highlighting the improved quality of visa applications from Nepalese students. Their presentation reflected a positive outlook on the educational exchange between the two nations.
Professor Dr. Subarna Lal Bajracharya, Vice Chancellor of Lumbini Buddhist University, spoke about the potential for reverse migration to Nepal for unique academic courses such as Buddhism. Additionally, Mr. Surya Karki, Country Director and Co-Founder of United World Schools (UWS) in Nepal, discussed the global risks and rewards of education for students returning to Nepal.
Conclusion and Networking Opportunities
The event culminated with a keynote address by Her Excellency Felicity Volk, Ambassador of Australia to Nepal, who reflected on her tenure and the growing educational and diplomatic ties between Nepal and Australia. A heartfelt farewell video was presented, followed by tokens of appreciation given to Ambassador Volk by President Sharma and Immediate Past President Timalsina.
The convention concluded with the distribution of certificates and tokens of gratitude to all speakers, sponsors, and guests. Vice President Buddhi Sagar Aryal delivered a closing message of thanks, after which attendees enjoyed a networking dinner, fostering further discussions on future collaborations.
