HEVEN Project Officially Kicked Off

The Higher Education for Vocational Educators (HEVEN) Project, led by Tribhuvan University and including partners Kathmandu University and Nepal Open University, is supported by Jamk University of Applied Sciences (Finland) and Saxion University of Applied Sciences (Netherlands). The project officially kicked off on January 1, 2026  and organized a kick off meeting on Feburary in Finland. HEVEN aims to strengthen technical and vocational education and training  in Nepal by building the capacities of vocational teachers, teacher educators, and education managers. Co-funded by the European Union under the Erasmus+ Key Action 2 (Capacity Building in Higher Education) programme, it equips educators with modern teaching methods to better prepare students for labour market demands.

A key activity is the development of a new postgraduate certificate programme for vocational educators. This programme focuses not only on technical skills but also on pedagogy, modern teaching approaches, digital learning, assessment strategies, and stronger links to industry and the labour market. Delivered through blended learning, it enables teachers from remote areas to participate while continuing their professional duties.

The project also provides targeted training across Nepal for vocational teachers, educators, and leaders in all seven provinces. These sessions use practical manuals, real-world examples, and hands-on approaches. Additionally, HEVEN enhances digital infrastructure, including online learning platforms, digital libraries, and ICT support, to improve access to high-quality resources for teachers and students.

According to Indra Raj Upadhyaya, Deputy Director of the Open and Distance Education Centre (ODEC) at Tribhuvan University, the project fosters connections among universities, policymakers, and employers through policy dialogues and applied research. This alignment helps ensure vocational education better meets labour market needs and informs evidence-based decision-making.

By the project's end, HEVEN will deliver trained educators, strengthened institutions, modern learning tools, and sustained international cooperation—contributing to a more respected, effective, and inclusive vocational education system in Nepal. The project also plans to produce at least three peer-reviewed scientific articles, share regular updates via social media, and enable Nepali colleagues to present outcomes at European academic conferences for broader impact.