Tribhuvan University (T.U.) is the nation’s first university; in 1961, there were just 5143 students enrolled; by 2002–2003, that number had risen to over 213412 students. Its 60 constituent universities house over 170700 students (T.U., 2006/07), while the 413 linked private colleges are home to about 86457.

Tribhuvan University (TU), known as त्रिभुवन विश्वविद्यालय in Nepali, is a public institution located in Kirtipur, Kathmandu, Nepal. Founded in 1959, TU holds the distinction of being Nepal’s oldest and largest university. It offers a broad range of academic programs with 1,000 undergraduate and 500 postgraduate courses across various disciplines. The university operates 62 constituent campuses and has over 1,080 affiliated colleges spread throughout the country.

History

Established on June 25, 1959 (11 Ashar 2016 BS), Tribhuvan University was named in honor of the late King Tribhuvan. Initially, all postgraduate classes were conducted at the Tripureshwor Campus, which also housed the administrative office. In 1967, the university moved to its current location in Kirtipur, an ancient town approximately 5 kilometers southwest of Kathmandu. The main campus, which spans 154.77 hectares, includes both the Central Administrative Office and the Central Campus.

Academics

Since its founding, TU has grown significantly, expanding its academic offerings. The university now includes five technical institutes and four general faculties. It provides 115 courses for technical proficiency certificates and 1,079 undergraduate courses, along with 1,000 master’s level courses. Additionally, TU offers PhD programs through its technical institutes and faculties.

Before 1980, TU operated solely through its constituent campuses. However, as the demand for higher education grew, the university began affiliating private colleges starting in 1979. As of April 2016, there were 1,084 private and public colleges affiliated with TU.

During the 2014-2015 academic year, TU enrolled 405,341 students, with 36.55% attending its 60 constituent campuses, which include 38 central departments, and 63.45% studying at its 1,053 affiliated colleges.

Student Enrollment and Educational Quality

Tribhuvan University is Nepal’s leading higher education institution, with numerous colleges affiliated with it. By 1971, all community colleges in Nepal were part of TU. The university boasts one of the largest full-time student enrollments globally. On December 18, 2023, TU held its 49th graduation ceremony in Kathmandu, with over 73,000 students graduating, earning the university a Guinness World Record.

Despite producing a large number of graduates, many struggle to find employment in Nepal and seek opportunities abroad. Public colleges in Nepal are government-funded, while community colleges are privately funded. Both types follow TU’s curriculum and examination system. However, the university’s education and services, including business education, training, and vocational education, have not kept pace with new technology and career preparation.

TU employs 7,841 teaching faculty and 7,413 non-teaching staff across its constituent campuses, totaling 15,254 employees.

Rankings

In the 2024 Times Higher Education World University Rankings, Tribhuvan University is ranked among the top 1201-1500 universities globally and within the top 251-300 in Asia. According to the 4icu Organisation of University Ranking, TU is ranked 6,676th worldwide and 2nd in Nepal.