Nepali scholar shaping medical education in Uzbekistan

By A Staff Reporter,Kathmandu, Dec. 28: Not everyone who leaves Nepal in pursuit of education plans to build a career abroad, and even fewer imagine leading an international university. Yet for Dr Kishan Bhandari, a native of Bouddha, Kathmandu, a journey that began with a medical scholarship has evolved into a leadership role in higher education in Central Asia.

Dr Bhandari currently serves as the Dean of Asia International University in Bukhara, Uzbekistan, where he oversees multiple academic programmes, including medicine, information technology, business and management. His path to this position reflects not only academic excellence, but also adaptability, persistence and a strong sense of responsibility towards Nepal and Nepali students.

After completing Grade 12 in Nepal, Dr Bhandari secured a scholarship to study medicine in Russia in 2009. He says the decision to go abroad was driven by his long-standing ambition to become a doctor and by the academic foundation laid by his teachers. “My principles and discipline were shaped early,” he said, crediting his mentors for guiding him towards both professional and ethical growth.

He completed his MBBS in 2013 and later moved to Kyrgyzstan, where many Nepali students pursue postgraduate medical education. At the State Medical Institute in Jalalabad, he earned a Master’s degree in Neurosurgery and Public Health. His professional career progressed rapidly there, leading to his appointment as Assistant Dean, an uncommon position for an international graduate.

Two years ago, Dr Bhandari accepted an offer from Uzbekistan, attracted by the country’s growing emphasis on academic quality and integrated hospital-based education. Asia International University now has more than 33,000 students across 49 academic programmes, with learners from 14 countries, including Nepal.

According to Dr Bhandari, the university provides a supportive environment for Nepali students. Several Nepali faculty members are already teaching there, and the administration is familiar with the academic and cultural needs of students from Nepal. “Nepali students feel safe and welcomed here,” he says, adding that the system is structured and student-oriented.

He also highlights Uzbekistan’s social and religious environment, which he believes is often misunderstood. “Uzbekistan guarantees personal freedom,” he said. “It is a state where different people coexist peacefully. It is important to clarify that this is not a society influenced by particular demography,” he added.

This year, Dr Bhandari initiated a scholarship programme aimed at supporting two underprivileged Nepali students. The scheme, implemented in coordination with the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA), covers tuition, accommodation, food and travel expenses, provided the students meet the Medical Education Commission’s requirements. He says the initiative is intended to support capable students who are financially constrained but academically deserving.

Although opportunities exist for graduates to work abroad, Dr Bhandari believes returning to Nepal after completing medical education is often the best option. He maintains that graduates from his institution are eligible for professional pathways in Nepal and other countries, including the UK, the US, Australia and the Middle East.

Despite his growing responsibilities overseas, his ties to Nepal remain strong. He previously served as President of NRNA Kyrgyzstan and continues to promote Nepal in his professional circles. “I never expected my journey to unfold this way,” he said, “but wherever I am, my effort is to stay connected to Nepal and contribute in whatever way I can,” he added.