In this episode, we dive into the fascinating concept behind Madan Bhandari University, the only autonomous university in Nepal that actually pays students to study. We explore the university’s unique working modality and what sets it apart from other institutions in South Asia. Our discussion covers the politicization of the educational system in Nepal, the right political attitude for education, and how educational laws are often passed without a clear purpose. We also address the critical issue of biases in academic research, which can arise due to external funding, and how Madan Bhandari University aims to combat this challenge. We delve into the affiliation system commonly seen in South Asian universities, discussing whether educational institutions can thrive without such affiliations. The podcast also highlights the milestones and long-term vision for Madan Bhandari University, offering insights into how its autonomy and innovative approach are reshaping the educational landscape in Nepal. This episode also explores how the university pays its students, why this model works, and what it means for the future of higher education. Tune in to learn more about the future of quality education in Nepal, the significance of autonomy in academic institutions, and why affiliation systems are not as common globally as they are in Nepal. GET CONNECTED WITH Rajendra Dhwoj Joshi: MBUST: https://www.mbust.edu.np/ Linkedin: https://np.linkedin.com/in/rajendra-dhoj-joshi-38b6a72b