Impact Forum 2025: Strengthening the Australia–Nepal Education Bridge
- AAERI Nepal Team
- Sep 3
- 2 min read
On 18th August 2025, the Impact Forum on Australian Education was held at The Plaza, Pulchowk, Lalitpur. The event brought together policymakers, educators, graduates, and institutional leaders to reflect on the opportunities and challenges in Nepal’s student recruitment ecosystem and the role of Australian education in shaping Nepal’s future.

A Warm Beginning
The evening began with guest registration and greetings, followed by the national anthems of Nepal and Australia, symbolizing the deep ties between the two nations. An introductory video from AAERI Nepal set the stage, highlighting the association’s mission of fostering transparency and professionalism in student recruitment.
Leadership Voices
Mr. Dwiraj Sharma, President of AAERI Nepal, welcomed the audience with a speech that underlined the importance of collaboration between local consultancies, international universities, and government bodies. His message emphasized sustaining growth while ensuring compliance and ethical practices.
Later in the evening, Hon. Dr. Swarnim Wagle, Member of Parliament, delivered the keynote speech, linking education mobility to Nepal’s broader economic aspirations. He was followed by Her Excellency Leann Johnston, Ambassador of Australia to Nepal, who reaffirmed Australia’s long-standing commitment to supporting Nepali students in their academic and professional journeys.
Panel Discussion 1: Building a Sustainable Recruitment Ecosystem
The first panel explored “Sustaining the Student Recruitment Ecosystem in Nepal: Strategies for Collaboration, Compliance, and Market Diversification.”
Moderated by Mahesh Babu Timalsina, the session featured insights from:
Shristy Bhattarai (Navitas Group)
Anup Shrestha (University of Adelaide)
Subhi Pradhan (Southern Cross University)
Alkayet Hossain (Macquarie University)
The discussion emphasized compliance with international standards, building long-term trust with students, and exploring diverse markets to reduce overreliance on a single destination or channel.

Panel Discussion 2: Returning Graduates and Nepal’s Future
The second panel highlighted “Harnessing the Impact of Australian Education: The Role of Returning Nepali Graduates in Shaping Nepal’s Economic Future.”
Moderated by Dr. Paras Kharel, the panel included successful Nepali graduates from top Australian universities and institutions:
Abhishek Shrestha (ICMS Graduate)
Dr. Samir Dixit (UoW/WSU Graduate)
Arushree Sharma (University of Sydney)
Ashlesha Karki (University of Melbourne / Mechi Crown Hotel)
Speakers shared how their Australian education shaped their professional achievements and how returning graduates can play a vital role in Nepal’s development—bringing back skills, networks, and global perspectives.
Special Messages from Abroad
The forum also featured virtual addresses:
Mr. Otto Dargan, CEO & Founder of Home Loan Expert in Australia and Alaya in Nepal, who spoke about blending Nepal’s local strengths with global exposure.
Vik Singh from Austrade and George Thiveos from the Australian Department of Education, who highlighted the policy and trade perspectives shaping future partnerships.
Closing & Networking
The program concluded with a vote of thanks from Mr. Buddhi Sagar Aryal, Vice President of AAERI Nepal, followed by a group photo session. The evening then transitioned into networking over dinner and drinks—an opportunity for participants to connect, exchange ideas, and strengthen professional ties.
Key Takeaways
Collaboration and compliance are essential to sustaining Nepal’s student recruitment ecosystem.
Australian education continues to play a transformative role in shaping Nepal’s human capital.
Returning graduates are not just success stories abroad—they are catalysts for innovation and growth at home.
Events like the Impact Forum are vital in fostering trust, dialogue, and long-term partnerships.
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