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Workshop in Nepal Paves the Way for Study Abroad Program
 
A recent trip to Nepal by Dr. Suraj Upadhaya, Assistant Professor of Sustainable Systems at Kentucky State University (KSU), marked a significant step toward developing a faculty-led study abroad program focused on climate change adaptation, food security, and sustainable natural resource management in low-income economies. 

The visit occurred in December of last year as part of a proposal titled, "Sustainable Horizons: Navigating Climate Change Adaptation, Ensuring Food Security, & Managing Natural Resources in Low-Income Economies through Faculty-Led Study-Abroad Program in Nepal,” funded by the U.S. Department of State’s Increase and Diversify Education Abroad for U.S. Students (IDEAS) program. This project aims to enhance KSU's curriculum with global perspectives and support U.S. foreign policy goals by fostering mutual understanding and cooperation in addressing climate change. 

Dr. Upadhaya's efforts through this grant highlights KSU's commitment to global engagement and sustainability education. 

"My journey as an academic has been shaped by a deep commitment to bridging global and local sustainability challenges. This recent initiative through a project funded by the IDEAS program reflects my commitment as KSU strives to create transformative educational experiences that are both accessible and impactful to our students and faculty members,” said Dr. Upadhaya.

Dr. Upadhaya conducted a workshop with Faculty of Forestry members from Nepal's Agriculture and Forestry University’s (AFU). The discussions centered on the challenges and opportunities of hosting a study abroad program, emphasizing affordability, accessibility, and experiential learning for underrepresented minority students. The workshop was attended by more than 25 faculty members and students, including the AFU Faculty of Forestry Dean Dr. Gandhiv Kafle.

Beyond the workshop, Dr. Upadhaya engaged with diverse stakeholders, including development workers, faculty members from the Institute of Forestry, and professionals working in conservation. These interactions underscored the importance of collaboration and exchange in addressing global sustainability challenges. 

The visit to Nepal also laid the groundwork for KSU's proposed two-credit course titled, “Climate Change Adaptation, Food Security, and Natural Resource Management in Low-Income Economies.” This course aims to provide students with hands-on learning experiences through field visits, guest lectures, and interactions with local communities. As part of this initiative, KSU is formalizing partnerships with Nepalese institutions and exploring long-term faculty and student exchange opportunities. The initiative is a testament to the transformative potential of international education, particularly for minority-serving institutions. 

"We are delighted to collaborate with Kentucky State University on this project. Such initiatives provide valuable opportunities for both students and faculty to engage in meaningful learning and professional development,” said Ms. Beeju Poudyal, Assistant Professor at AFU.

The first steps taken in Nepal are a promising indication of KSU's vision to bridge global and local sustainability challenges through education, collaboration, and innovation.