Ray NEWS/Kathmandu, 2026 June 11- National College, a Kathmandu University-affiliated institution based in Dhumbarahi, has officially launched its Bachelor of International Relations and Diplomacy (BIRD) program, marking what the college describes as Nepal’s first dedicated market-oriented undergraduate degree in international affairs.

The inaugural ceremony held on Thursday brought together former diplomats, foreign policy experts, academics, security analysts, government officials, and students to celebrate the introduction of the new academic program.

Addressing the event, Principal Madhav Prasad Neupane said the program was designed to fill a longstanding gap in undergraduate diplomatic education in Nepal. He noted that international relations today extends beyond foreign service careers and encompasses global trade, security frameworks, climate diplomacy, and cross-cultural engagement.

Shweta Karki, Program Lead of BIRD and an academic in international relations, highlighted the program’s unique “Nepal-centric International Relations and Diplomacy” framework. She said students would examine how Nepal navigates complex geopolitical dynamics while developing practical skills in diplomacy, conflict resolution, international negotiation, and cross-cultural communication.

The event featured remarks from prominent experts, including former diplomat and Chair of the BIRD Subject Committee Dr. Dinesh Bhattarai, foreign affairs expert Dr. Nishchal Nath Pandey, and retired Major General Dr. Purna Bahadur Silwal. Speakers emphasized the growing need for institutionalized diplomatic education in Nepal and praised the program’s practical components such as crisis simulations, field visits, and internships.

Guest of Honor Prof. Dr. Shreedhar Khatri, former Ambassador of Nepal to the United States, shared insights on contemporary global diplomacy, while Chief Guest Prof. Mahesh Banskota, former Dean of Kathmandu University School of Arts, lauded the initiative as an important step toward strengthening international studies and research in Nepal.

The ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks by National College Chairman Dr. Badri Dev Pandey, who reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to experiential learning and academic collaboration. The formal program was followed by a networking session involving students, faculty members, diplomats, and government representatives.