Message from the Principal

Dear Students, Parents, and Well-Wishers,

Welcome to Kathmandu Forestry College (KAFCOL)—a vibrant institution committed to academic excellence, innovation, and service to society. In a time of mounting global planetary crisis—marked by climate change, biodiversity loss, and resource degradation—the role of education in environmental stewardship has never been more critical. KAFCOL stands at the forefront of this transformative movement.

Since our establishment in 2006, KAFCOL has remained committed to nurturing skilled, ethical, and visionary Forestry and Natural Resources Management professionals. Our academic offerings span from Diploma and Bachelor programs to advanced Master’s degrees, including the MSc in Natural Resource Management and Rural Development (NRM-RD), and the internationally recognized UNIGIS MSc in Geographical Information Science, run in collaboration with the University of Salzburg. These programs are thoughtfully designed to address both national priorities and global environmental challenges. Looking ahead, we are expanding our academic portfolio to include emerging and highly relevant subjects such as the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Natural Resources Management, Environmental Studies, Climate Change, and Sustainability—areas that are crucial for addressing present concerns and preparing for future scenarios.

KAFCOL is more than just an academic institution; it is a Centre of Excellence where theory meets practice. We actively engage in research and outreach initiatives addressing real-world challenges, such as sustainable forest management, climate resilience, biodiversity conservation, and community-based resource governance. This knowledge base has far-reaching implications within Nepal, the global South, and beyond, contributing to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The Nepal Agroforestry Foundation and a dedicated group of natural resource professionals jointly established our college. This unique foundation ensures we remain rooted in community needs while keeping pace with global scientific advancements.

To the young minds seeking a purpose-driven education: KAFCOL offers you more than a degree—a platform to become an agent of change. Our multi- and trans-disciplinary approach empowers students to think critically, act ethically, and lead sustainably. In joining KAFCOL, you become part of a movement to create a better, greener, and more equitable world.

We welcome you to join us on this journey, where passion meets purpose and learning leads to lasting impact.

Warm regards,

Prof. Medani P. Bhandari, PhD

Principal, Kathmandu Forestry College (KAFCOL)