Tribhuvan University Staff Union's Stance on Convocation Participation

The ongoing dispute at Tribhuvan University (TU), Nepal's prestigious educational institution, has escalated with the TU Staff Union's recent declaration. The complexities of this situation, highlight the union's demands, the potential impact on the university's upcoming convocation, and the broader implications for the institution.

Union's Ultimatum:

• Background: The TU Staff Union, representing technical, nursing, and administrative staff, has expressed dissatisfaction over unfulfilled past agreements with the university's management.
• Recent Developments: On December 4, 2023, the union submitted a memorandum to the university officials, reiterating their demands for the professional rights and interests of their members.
• The Ultimatum: They have issued a stern warning that if their demands are not met, they will halt administrative work and educational programs across TU. This decision also threatens to disrupt the 49th convocation ceremony scheduled for December 18, 2023.

Impact on the Convocation Ceremony

• Significance of the Ceremony: The convocation is not just a significant event for TU but holds international importance.
• The Threat: The union's refusal to participate and their call to halt university operations could severely affect the ceremony's success.
• Urgent Need for Resolution: With the clock ticking, the resolution of this standoff is crucial for the university's reputation and the future of its students.
• Partial Implementation: According to Chhatra Bahadur Karki, while some aspects of the agreement have been implemented, key issues remain unresolved.
• Call for Action: He emphasizes the need for honest implementation of the agreement, hinting at more intense actions if demands are not met.
• Employee Welfare at Stake: Karki highlights that TU employees have been deprived of certain services and facilities since July, raising concerns about their wellbeing and morale.

Opposition and Appeals

• The All Nepal National Independent Union's Stance: They have urged the TU Staff Union not to disrupt the convocation, considering its importance.
• The All Revolutionary District Committee Kirtipur's Request: This committee has raised concerns about the weakening state of TU and its educational programs, opposing the idea of halting the convocation.

The situation at Tribhuvan University is a complex interplay of unmet agreements, employee dissatisfaction, and the impending risk to a significant academic event. The resolution of this conflict is not only essential for the immediate success of the convocation ceremony but also for maintaining the institution's legacy and integrity. It's a critical moment for TU's management to address the issues and negotiate a path forward that respects the staff's demands while ensuring the university's operational continuity.