Lalitpur, July 6, 2026 — Reinforcing its commitment to fostering a strong research ecosystem, National College of Engineering (NCE) successfully conducted the Research Grant MoU Signing Ceremony yesterday, formally awarding research grants to five promising research projects under the College’s second Research Grant Call.
The ceremony marked another significant milestone in NCE’s continued efforts to promote research, innovation, and academic collaboration. The event was attended by College Chairman Prof. Dr. Tri Ratna Bajracharya, Principal Prof. Dr. Arbind Kumar Mishra, the CEO, Academic Director, Heads of Departments, faculty members, students, and researchers from collaborating institutions.
Under this year’s research grant program, five research projects were awarded grants of NPR 200,000 each. Of the selected projects, two are being carried out entirely by NCE faculty members and students, while the remaining three projects are collaborative initiatives involving researchers from Pulchowk Campus, Thapathali Campus, and Kathmandu University, with at least one NCE student participating in each project. Altogether, 14 NCE students are directly involved in the funded research, providing them with valuable opportunities to contribute to high-impact research alongside experienced researchers.
The five funded research projects are:
- Quantum Dots-Embedded Laser-Induced Graphene Enabling High-Performance Acetone Gas Sensor for Artificial Intelligence Empowered Human Breath Analysis
- Technical, Environmental, and Economic Potential Analysis of Briquetting Agricultural Waste in the Terai Region of Nepal
- Reinforcement of FDM 3D Prints Through Strategic Insertion of Conventional Unprintable Materials During Controlled Print Interruptions
- Urban Flood-Driven Contamination in Kathmandu Valley: Tracking Pollution and Assessing Risk to Public Health
- Quantifying Bagmati Basin Runoff Response to Land Use Change Using SWAT and Machine Learning
Addressing the gathering, Principal Prof. Dr. Arbind Kumar Mishra reflected on the remarkable growth of research engagement at NCE. He noted that during the College’s first Research Grant Call, only four NCE students were part of the awarded projects, whereas the second call has directly engaged 14 NCE students.
“This growth is not merely an increase in numbers; it is a clear indication that a vibrant research culture is gradually being established at National College of Engineering,” he remarked.
Congratulating the grant recipients, Prof. Mishra further stated that while the financial support provided through the grant may be modest, the College’s confidence in the researchers is immense. He expressed his belief that the teams would produce impactful research outcomes that justify the trust and expectations placed in them by the institution.
Speaking on the occasion, College Chairman Prof. Dr. Tri Ratna Bajracharya emphasized that research is an integral part of engineering education and plays a crucial role in the academic growth of students, the professional development of faculty members, and the institutional recognition of the College at both national and international levels. He encouraged researchers to pursue innovative solutions that address real-world challenges and contribute meaningfully to society.
Representing the grant recipients, Associate Professor Dr. Shree Raj Shakya from Pulchowk Campus highlighted the challenges currently faced by researchers in Nepal and applauded National College of Engineering for initiating and consistently continuing its institutional research grant program. He remarked that such initiatives are instrumental in nurturing research culture and encouraging meaningful academic collaboration among higher education institutions.
The program also featured a special research sharing session by Associate Professor Dr. Bhesh Kumar Karki from Thapathali Campus, who presented his research entitled “Human Health and Ecological Risk Assessment: Application for Sustainable Decision Making.” His presentation offered valuable insights into the application of scientific research in environmental management and public health.
The ceremony concluded with the formal signing of Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) between National College of Engineering and the respective principal investigators, officially marking the commencement of the funded research projects.
The event was coordinated by Er. Saban Kumar K.C., Deputy Chief of the Research & Development (R&D) Division, reflecting the Division’s continued commitment to promoting research excellence and interdisciplinary collaboration at National College of Engineering.