The Independent Students' Union of Nepal (SWAVIU) was once the backbone of the student movement. It was established in 2019 and the first elections were held in 2021.

Swaviyu has played an important role in historical events like anti-panchayat movement, restoration of democracy in 2046, people's movement in 2062/63.

The contribution of Swaviyu to issues like fee control, protection of student rights and campus reforms is unforgettable. But it is equally true that in recent years it has become a hotbed of violence, factionalism and political interference. We have also seen the ironic situation where the elections of SWUU are not regular, the student organizations are diverted from their real issues and the campuses become the scene of clashes.

In Nepal, the student organizations of developed countries are operating in a peaceful, creative and effective manner while self-education is becoming synonymous with political interference and violence. In Japan, they seem to focus on educational reform, cultural activities and student development, where violence has no place.

Student organizations are active in leadership development, policy making and student rights in America. Similarly, in the UK they seem to focus on issues such as student welfare, mental health and educational reform. The student organization in Germany seems to be focused on reforming the education policy by working as a bridge between students and the administration. Student organizations in France and Australia also continue to press for student benefits through peaceful protests. These organizations can be inspirational for student organizations in Nepal due to their educational reform, institutional support and non-political character.

Compared to us, Swaviyu has become more like a sports-friendly organization that has political influence rather than educational reform. In developed countries, student organizations work for education, skill development, policy making and the rights of students, but in Nepal, student organizations seem to have become only tools for political factionalism and power struggle. This is also the main reason why the actual involvement of students in self-education is decreasing.

By learning lessons from student organizations in developed countries such as peaceful protests, institutional reforms and academic leadership, Swaviyu can regain its lost respect. If self-determination is not improved, the voice of students in the future is bound to weaken and educational institutions will become more disorganized. Swaviyu will correct the old pattern and work in the real interest of the students!

– Santosh Simkhada , Tokyo, Japan