Diploma in Forestry

Program Duration: The Diploma in Forestry is a comprehensive three-year program designed to train future forestry technicians with the expertise needed to address the growing market demand for skilled professionals in this field. This program is available to students who have completed their SEE (Secondary Education Examination).

Program Objective: The primary goal of this program is to produce capable middle-level forestry technicians (Rangers) who can significantly contribute to the improvement of community livelihoods through participatory methods. The curriculum focuses on equipping students with the knowledge and skills required to work effectively with community forestry user groups and to engage in various sub-sectors such as integrated watershed management, wildlife conservation, and protected area management.

Curriculum Structure: The Diploma in Forestry program is meticulously structured over three years, with each year focusing on specific aspects of forestry education:

• First Year: The first year of the program lays the groundwork with fundamental subjects in basic sciences, including Physics, Chemistry, Zoology, Botany, and Mathematics. These foundational courses are essential for understanding the core principles of forestry and environmental science. Additionally, language courses in Nepali and English are included to enhance communication skills relevant to the forestry sector.
• Second Year: In the second year, students delve deeper into forestry-specific disciplines. The coursework is designed to address contemporary issues in community forestry management, soil conservation, and watershed management. Emphasis is placed on developing a comprehensive understanding of wildlife conservation and protected area management.
• Third Year: The final year of the program integrates theoretical knowledge with practical application through a Work Experience Program (WEP). This year focuses on advanced disciplinary subjects and provides students with hands-on experience in real-world forestry settings. The practical component is crucial for applying learned skills and gaining valuable field experience.

Curriculum Rationale: The curriculum was last revised in 2013 and is undergoing its second revision to address several key factors:

• Five-Year Review: The program has surpassed the five-year implementation period since its last revision, prompting a need for updates based on teaching experiences and evolving industry standards.
• Curriculum Adjustments: Adjustments in the year-wise distribution of subjects and emphasis on practical orientation are necessary to better address the second and third-generation issues in the forestry sector.
• Technological Advances: With rapid advancements in forestry technology, the curriculum must be updated to ensure students are trained with the most current knowledge and skills relevant to the field.

Program Features:

• Knowledge and Skills: The curriculum is designed to cover essential forestry knowledge and skills, including community forestry, soil conservation, watershed management, wildlife conservation, and protected area management.
• Field-Based Experience: A significant portion of the program is dedicated to practical experience, ensuring that students gain hands-on skills and real-world experience.
• Innovative Teaching Methods: A combination of lectures, tutorials, group discussions, demonstrations, and fieldwork are employed to facilitate diverse learning experiences.

Entry Criteria: Candidates must meet the following criteria to enroll in the program:

1. Completion of SLC or SEE with a minimum grade of C in two subjects and D± in one subject among Compulsory Mathematics, English, and Science.
2. A TSLC in Forestry with a minimum grade of 67%.
3. Successful completion of an entrance examination administered by CTEVT.

Medium of Instruction: The program will be conducted in English and/or Nepali, depending on the needs of the students.

Attendance and Evaluation:

• Attendance: A minimum of 90% attendance is required in each subject to qualify for final examinations.
• Internal Assessment: Continuous assessment will be conducted for both theory and practical components, with feedback provided regularly.
• Final Examination: Students must pass both theory and practical components to receive certification. Practical examinations will be conducted by professional evaluators in relevant settings.

Career Opportunities: Graduates of the Diploma in Forestry program will be eligible for positions equivalent to Non-gazette 1st class (technical) as Rangers or similar roles as prescribed by the Public Service Commission of Nepal. They will also have opportunities for registration with relevant councils and may apply for further studies in B.Sc. Forestry programs at recognized universities.