Global Insights, Local Roots: A Case Study of University–Community Collaboration in Nepal

Abstract

This paper presents a case study of Nepal with special reference to Far Western University (FWU), examining how a young, growing higher education institution engages with the communities to enhance their capabilities and providing the opportunities in their all-round development. University-community partnerships are emerging as critical mechanisms for driving overall development. The research adopts a qualitative case study approach and investigates university–community collaboration and explores how such partnerships function effectively. FWU integrates community-based learning, participatory research, and localized curriculum development to align academic activities with regional as well as national needs. The university executes several activities and initiatives ranging from agricultural training, awareness programs and public health outreach to the documentation of indigenous culture and values, reflecting a commitment to both local empowerment and global scholarship. To become socially responsible universities should seek opportunities to have collaboration with the community they exist.