Nepal Open University and NAS-IT signed an MoU to develop an RPEL framework, recognizing prior practical experience under the Industry-Integrated Degree model.
Lalitpur: Nepal Open University (NOU) and the Nepal Association for Software and IT Services Companies (NAS-IT) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to develop a Recognition of Prior Experience and Learning (RPEL) Framework as part of the Industry-Integrated Degree (IID) initiative.
The MoU was signed by Ramji Bogati, PhD, Programme Coordinator at Nepal Open University, and Deepen Chapagain, President of NAS-IT.
The collaboration aims to establish a structured mechanism for recognizing knowledge, skills, and experience gained through non-formal and informal learning within the IID framework.
Under the agreement, the organizations will develop policy guidelines for RPEL, providing an institutional basis for recognizing prior learning and experience. The work will include developing evidence-based guidelines suited to the academic and institutional context of Nepal Open University.
The initiative will also focus on developing a standardized assessment mechanism, including eligibility criteria, discipline-specific equivalency mapping matrices, credit limits, and assessment rubrics for evaluating prior learning. The proposed assessment process will follow four stages: screening, documentation, assessment, and certification.
The collaboration will further develop administrative standard operating procedures (SOPs) covering student applications, academic committee verification, credit recording, dispute resolution, and applicant advising and support.
The framework will draw on implementation lessons from comparable open and distance learning institutions to develop an approach that can be effectively implemented within Nepal Open University.
The RPEL framework is intended to strengthen the IID model by creating a structured pathway to recognize relevant prior learning and experience alongside formal academic education. This can help connect learners’ existing knowledge and professional experience with their academic progression.
The MoU marks another step in the collaboration between NAS-IT and Nepal Open University to develop an industry-integrated higher education model that connects academic learning, practical experience, and the needs of Nepal’s technology industry.
The Industry-Integrated Degree (IID) is an initiative of NAS-IT in collaboration with Nepal Open University (NOU), supported by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) through the technical assistance of Swisscontact.
