AGM

• MC: Mr. Tulasi Prasad Uprety, Vice President of ABAN, announced that a public notice about the AGM was published in Annapurna Post 21 days prior to the AGM as required by Article 11 of ABAN Statute. Quorum count was done and the meeting was pursued as per the provision of the Statute with 50 members present in the meeting after 30 minutes hold when members present gave their self introduction.
• Vice President Mr. Tulasi P. Uprety welcomed the chief guest Dr. Jiba Raj Pokhrel, Vice Chancellor of Nepal Academy of Science & Technology and all the members of ABAN and guests present in the AGM. MC Tulasi then requested General Secretary Mr. Uttam P. Pant to present the Annual Report.
• General Secretary Mr. Uttam P. Pant presented Annual Report of ABAN for 2015/16 on the following lines:

1)    During the past 14 months from 11th April, 2015, ABAN held 8 Executive Committee Meetings:
– 1st ECM on 13th April 2015 – Introductory meeting of all elected members.
– 2nd ECM on 21st August 2015 – Formation of Sub-Committees to carry out different tasks for fulfill the objectives of ABAN. Briefing by the outgoing ECM members about the status of Audit reports from FY 2069-70, documents needed for the renewal of ABAN registration with CDO office,
– 3rd ECM on 22nd September 2015 – Approval of three new Life members. Briefed about ABAN’s meeting with British Council Country Director Dr. Jovan Ilic on September 11, 2015.
– 4th ECM on 17th December 2015 – Auditor’s reports for FY 2069/70, 2070/71 and 2071/72 BS presented. Three new Life members approved. A fund of Rs.24,000/- was raised from ECM members to serve 42 senior citizens of Nishahaya Sewa Kendra, Baneshwor on 26th December.
– 5th ECM on 1st April 2016 reviewed bank balances. A IELTS test proposal prepared for submission to the British Council to raise fund for ABAN.
– 6th ECM on 8th May 2016 – Final accounts of ABAN Magazine 2015 to determine surplus generated. Decision to process of Registration renewal with payment of penalties.
– 7th ECM on 23rd May, 2016 – Final handover of ABAN Accounts and Bank balances. Closure of bank account in NMB Bank and Change of signatories to operate bank accounts in Mega and NB Bank.
– 8th ECM on 21st June, 2015 – Preparatory meeting for the upcoming 18th AGM on 25th June 2016.2)    The following programs were organized during 2015/16:
a)    29th August 2015 – Talk on “Human Trafficking” by Dr. Ruchira Gupta.
b)    24th September – Talk on “Support to Earthquake Victims” by Dr. Tsering
c)    26th December –Visited Nishahaya Sewa Sadan (old age home) at Baneshwor and distributed dry food items and medicines to 42 resident senior citizens.
d)    17th January 2016 – Session on “Happy Living” by Mr. Tulasi and Ms. Poonam Uprety, a short version of “Art of Living” propagated by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar
e)    15th April 2016 –EDGE program event of the British Council.

3)    ABAN Publications:
a)    Eight issues of ABAN Newsletters published since April 2015.
b)    Final works of ABAN Magazine 2015 completed.
c)    An updated new ABAN Membership Directory 2016 published.
d)    ABAN Website www.aban.org.np has been updated.

4)    Public Relations:
a)    11th September 2016 – meeting with British Council Director Dr. Jovan Ilic.
b)    18th May 2016 – Chevening Bicentenary Reception with British Ambassador.
c)    15th June 2016 – Meeting with the HE British Ambassador.

5)    Proposal to replace Assistant General Secretary as Ms. Preeti Karki as she could not attend any ECM meetings so far due to her family reasons. The AGM approved the proposal and authorized the Executive Committee to appoint a suitable Asst. General Secretary in replacement for the remaining term.

• Treasurer Mr. Hariom Dhoj Joshi presented the Financial statements and Auditor’s Report of FY 2071/72 for approval of the AGM. Mr. Joshi also proposed to appoint M/s. H.R. Bhatta & Associates, registered auditors to audit ABAN accounts of FY 2072/73 at an audit fee of Rs.10,000/- including taxes. He also proposed to increase ABAN Membership Fees. The AGM approved the following with applause:

a)    Financial statements and Auditor’s Report of FY 2071/72 approved,
b)    Appointment of M/s. H.R. Bhatta & Associates as Auditors for DY 2072/73 with fee of Rs.10,000/- including VAT and taxes.
c)    Ordinary Membership Fee was raised to Rs.1,000/- and Life Membership fee to Rs.3,000/- effective from Srawan 1, 2073.

• Chief Guest Dr. Jiba Raj Pokhrel released ABAN Membership Directory 2016, and also handed over Token of Appreciations to Dr. Jovan Ilic, Mrs. Namrata Sharma and Mr. Shanker Paudel for the excellent cooperation during the year.
• Address by President Mr. Maheswor Bhakta Shrestha with Vote of Thanks. He ewcognized the presence of Past Presents Mr. Dilli Raj Joshi, Ms. Namrata Sharma, Dr. Mrs. Uma Shrivastava and IPP Mr. Shanker Prasad Paudel in the AGM.He remembered the four main objectives of ABAN and informed formation of 8 different sub-committees to achieve the objectives, namely, Cultural and Social sub-committee, Health & Medical sub-committee, Education Sub-committee, Program sub-committee, Publications sub-committee, Membership development sub-committee, Networking sub-committee and Fund-raising sub-committee. A Advisory Council of all Past Presidents will meet annually to provide a Strategic direction for future growth and development of the Association. He indicated four critical success factors for ABAN, namely, Membership development, Activities to fulfill the stated objectives, Financial strength and participation on events and fellowship events.

1)    Membership is the main strength of ABAN. In 2001 there were 246 members, which increased to 302 by March 2005, and to 378 by June 2010. In March 2016 the Directory lists 394 members, including 314 Life members and 47 lady members. Ten new life members joined ABAN during the year (including 3 in the AGM) in the background of no growth in the past 3 years.

2)    Activities: Besides the effect Mega Earthquake in April 2015 and the trade blockade that severely affected Nepalese life during September- December 2015, ABAN did undertake some activities as listed by General Secretary.

3)    Financial accounts of ABAN showed highest cash/ bank balance of Rs.496,380 in July 2011. Since then, the balance has declined every year to Rs. 289,607 in July 2015. The financial situation has been reversed this year with a net addition of Rs.33,835 to raise the bank balance to Rs.323,442 by 24 June 2016. In 2015, three members voluntarily contributed Rs.16,500 in cash. In the 18th AGM, six members contributed Rs.17,000/- voluntarily to ABAN fund.

4)    Participation: ABAN members actively participated in various programs of British Council and British Embassy, including EDGE program event of the British Council on April 15, 2016, Chevening Bicentenary reception on May 18 with HE British Ambassador, celebration of 90th Birthday of Her Majesty the queen Elizabeth II on June 15, 2016 at the Ambassador’s residence, and Britain-Nepal 200 Years programs like presentation on Bicentenary of Anglo-Nepal War for Peace and Friendship by Dr. Prem Singh Basnyat on June 8, 2016.

Gratitude
The president thanked all members of the 9th Executive Committee for their sincere support, cooperation and commitment to turn around the situation of ABAN for a better future and appreciated the invaluable support of  Dr. Jovan Ilic, Country Director of British Council, Past President Mrs. Namrata Sharma and Immediate Past President Mr. Shanker Prasad Paudel during the year. Very positive response of the British Ambassador HE Mr. Robert Morris and keen interest of the British Council Country Director Dr. Jovan Ilic in ABAN affairs is very encouraging to make ABAN more effective in future.
Vote of Thanks: The AGM was adjourned after a Vote of Thanks. The president thanked chief guest Dr. Jiba Raj Pokhrel for his inspiring speech. He expressed heartfelt thanks to British Ambassador to Nepal HE Mr. Richard Morris, British Council Country Director Dr. Jovan Ilic and Chief of Programs Ms. Rhona Brown for their positive response and support to ABAN. He remembered Mr. Ramesh Chhetry of ULCI and Life member Mr. Upendra Bahadur Shrestha, Mr. Sumit Amatya, Ms. Suchitra Shrestham Ms. Dibya and Ms. Asha Manandhar from the British Council and Mr. Dinesh Wagle and Mr. Kapindra Neupane from the British Embassy for their special help extended special thanks. Past Presidents of ABAN present in the AGM were also specially thanked

1. Inaugural Session

1.1 Dais call: MC Miss Ritika Kharel invited dignitaries on the dais:
ABAN President Mr. Maheswor B. Shrestha as Chair of the session, Dr. Jiba Raj Pokhrel, Vice Chancellor of Nepal Academy of Science & Technology as Chief Guest, Prof. Dr. Damodar Prasad Pokhrel President of Association of Nepalese Alumni from Australia (ANAA), Dr. Ram Chandra Bhusal, President of JICA Alumni Association of Nepal (JAAN) and Mr. Bhim Bahadur Adhikari and President of Mrigendra Samjhana Medical Trust as Special Guests.

1.2 Quorum count & Welcome: ABAN Vice President Mr. Tulasi Prasad Uprety informed about a public notice in Rajdhani daily newspaper of January 17, 2017 about the AGM. The meeting pursued with over 50 members present in the meeting. Mr. Uprety welcomed the chief guest, guests of honor, ABAN members (over 50 as required by the provision of the Statute) and guests present in the AGM and briefly highlighted the activities of ABAN during the past one year.

1.3 ABAN DAY Address: Past President Mr. Dilli Raj Joshi, on his ABAN DAY speech gave a historical account of ABAN from its inception in 1997, its official registration on 4rth February 1998 to the present day when ABAN has completed its teenage and is embarking on 20th year. The ninth executive committee has completed its tenure of two years, and a 10th executive committee will be elected by the 19th AGM for a two years term 2017-2019. He remembered the significant contributions made by founder president Dr. Narayan Bahador Thapa to whom he succeeded and by subsequent presidents till date.

1.4 Felicitation: Felicitation messages were expressed by the Guests of Honor Prof. Dr. Damodar Pokhrel, Dr. Ram Chandra Bhusal and Mr. Bhim Bahadur Adhikari for the greater success of ABAN and the success of the AGM. Dr. Damodar Pokhrel highlighted the activities of ANAA and invited ABAN to work together in some social project. Dr. Ram Chandra Bhusal detailed the activities of JAAN, now in its 43rd year by 21 February 2017 and detailed how JICA and the government of Nepal have empowered JAAN to give orientation certificate to all officials going to Japan on JICA funding. Mr. Bhim Bahadur Adhikari expressed his happiness to work with ABAN in serving the senior citizens as per a recently signed MOU between MSMT and ABAN for setting up an endowment fund of Rs.500,000/- with ABAN for the purpose.

1.5  President’s Address: ABAN President Mr. Maheswor Bhakta Shrestha addressed the gathering, thanked his executive team and coordinators of different subcommittees for their support and cooperation that helped ABAN to achieve some success in four key areas of Membership, Service activities, Financial strengthening and participation in programs:
1) Membership Growth: Membership is the main strength of any Association. ABAN membership is gradually increasing from 246 in 2001 to 403 by January 2017. This includes 323 Life members and 47 lady members. 17 life members have been added, including two Ordinary members converted to Life member during August 2015 to January 2017. The 14th Executive meeting of 9th ECM held on January 27 has conferred the first Honorary Membership to Dr. Mrigendra Raj Pandey, founder of Mrigendra Samjhana Medical Trust for his donation of Rs.500,000/- for an endowment fund.

2) Activities: Some of the activities carried out during 2015-2016 included:

1. Service to 42 senior citizens of Nishahaya Sewa Kendra, Baneshwor. MOU with MSMT for regular services to the senior citizens,
2. Talk programs at 5 occasions,
3. ABAN Membership Directory 2016,
4. Published 14 issues of ABAN Newsletter since April 2015
5. ABAN Family picnic at Doleshwor, Bhaktapur,
6. ABAN Magazine 2017 released on this AGM, funded by the British Council,
7. Updated ABAN Website: www.aban.org.np
8. A new 15 minutes long TV program on ABAN activities broadcast on NTV Plus and also featured on YouTube.

The sources of ABAN fund is limited to membership fees, their contributions and surplus of advertising revenue on its various publications. The cash balance had been depleting from Rs.496,380 in July 2011 to Rs. 289,607 by July 2015. The trend has now been reversed with a net positive addition of Rs.540,157 and raised the bank balance to Rs.829,264 by 3 Feb. 2017. ABAN financial situation will further improve to exceed Rs.1 million after the collection of advertising revenue of the just published ABAN Magazine 2017.

4)   Participation: ABAN is participating in various programs of British Council, British Embassy and other like-minded organizations. The EDGE event of the Council on April 15, 2016, Chevening Bicentenary reception on May 18 with His Excellency the British Ambassador Mr. Richard Morris, and the 90th Birthday celebration of Her Majesty the queen Elizabeth II on June 15, 2016 are some of the events where ABAN officials were active. ABAN leaders participated in AGM of Association of Nepalese Alumni from Australia (ANAA) in 2016 and on January 21, 2017, and in a talk program of Chevening Alumni Association of Nepal in December 2016.
ABAN is noe strong footed and the President Maheswor credited members of the 9th Executive Committee for this turn around. He lauded the active support of General Secretary Mr. Uttam Prasad Pant, Treasurer Mr. Hariom Dhoj Joshi, Assistant Treasurer Mrs. Shiba Devi Kafle, Executive Member Mr. Punya Prasad Paudel and IPP Mr. Shankar Prasad Paudel.

Chief Guest Dr. Jiba Raj Pokhrel released ABAN Magazine 2017, and also handed over Token of Appreciations to VP Mr. Tulasi Prasad Uprety, Executive member Mrs. Padma Vaidya and to first Honorary Member Dr. Mrigendra Raj Pandey for their invaluable support and donation. He expressed his nostalgic feeling of being pleasantly associated with the University of York for his Ph.D. study during 1992-95. He remembered Britain Nepal relations from the visit of Father Grover in 1643 when he met ruling king Pratap Malla, whom he amazed by gifting a binocular. The 1923 Treaty of Friendship with the British helped Nepal to be free from Chinese suppression, he said. Nepal’s prime minister Junga Bahadur’s visit to UK in 1850 imported many western culture and architectures in Nepal including the dome shaped Kalamochan temple built in 1876. Nepal has helped Britain in the two world wars, and Falkland and Afghanistan wars. He also indicated several areas where Nepal can learn from Britain including their expert handling of Thames river pollution, disaster management after the 1666 fire of UK and the corruption minimization.

ABAN Past President Mr. Rabi Jung Pandey extended Vote of Thanks to the chief guest Dr. Jiba Raj Pokhrel, Special Guests Prof. Dr. Damodar Prasad Pokhrel, Dr. Ram Chandra Bhusal and Mr. Bhim Bahadur Adhikari and all the members of ABAN present on the occasion.
President Maheswor adjourned the inaugural session of the AGM after thanking the chief guest for his inspiring speech, heartfelt thanks to British Ambassador to Nepal HE Mr. Richard Morris and British Council Country Director Dr. Jovan Ilic for their positive support to ABAN. He remembered and thanked Life member Mr. Upendra Bahadur Shrestha, British Council officials Mr. Sumit Amatya, Ms. Suchita Shrestha, Ms. Dibya and Ms. Asha Manandhar; British Embassy officials Mr. Kapindra Neupane and Mr. Dinesh Wagle for their special help and all the Past Presidents and members of ABAN present in the AGM.

2. Business Session

2.1 General Secretary Mr. Uttam Pant presented Annual Report of ABAN for 2016/17 on the following lines:

1. Meetings with HM British Ambassador and British Council Country Director Dr. Jovan Ilic occasionally, the first being on September 11, 2015
2. Publications: 14 issues of ABAN Newsletters published and electronically distributed since April 2015 to keep abreast of ABAN activities. A newABAN Membership Directory 2016 published on June 25, 2016 listing over 400 members alphabetically, ID number-wise and in 59 different specialization.
3. Service to Old Age Home:ABAN executive members handed over foodstuffs and 25 different types of medicine to Nishahaya Sewa Sadan at Baneshwor on December 26, 2015 as part of the Association’s regular service to the senior citizens in the wake of cold season that trouble them most.
4. ABAN Talk Programs: The 9th Executive Committee organized five Talk programs by prominent speakers on important national issues:
   •    On Human Trafficking by Dr. Ruchira Gupta on 29 August 2015,
   •    On Support to Earthquake victims Dr. Tsering on 24 September 2015,
   •    On Happy Living by Mr. Tulasi Prasad Uprety on 17 January 2016,
   •    On British Education & Job experience Dr. Mrigendra Raj Pandey on 23 October 2016, and
   •    On “Meet” Families of the Battlefield: A Historical Event in Nepal- Britain Relation by Dr. Prem Singh Basnyat on 11 December 2016.
5. New Life Members: The Association inducted 15 new Life Members and converted two Ordinary members into Life members.
6. Family Picnic: Some 30 members and family of ABAN celebrated annual picnic and get- together on November 19, 2016 outside the premise of the holy Doleshwor Mahadev temple in Bhaktapur district. The event also included sacred tree plantation on the holy sites of the temple.
7. MOU with MSMT: A Memorandun of Understanding has been signed on January 30, 2017 with Mrigendra Samjhana Medical Trust (MSMT), which provided ABAN with an endowment fund of Rs.500,000/- and one time initial fund of Rs.30,000/- to initiate a joint service project to support senior citizen homes in Nepal on annual basis.

2.2  Approval of Audit Reports

Assistant Treasurer Mrs. Shiba Kaphle presented the financial statements and Auditor’s Report of FY 2072/73 for approval by the assembly. Bank account balances at Mega Bank (Rs.312,610.43) and Nepal Bangladesh Bank (Rs.22,017.20) totaled Rs.334,627.63, which is 89.2% increase over previous year balance. Annual income comprised membership fee of Rs.22,000, bank interest 3,031.41, donation from members Rs.57,500 and magazine income Rs.143,000.
Mrs. Kaphle thanked statutory registered auditors M/s. H.R. Bhatta & Associates, for timely reports and proposed to reappoint them to audit ABAN accounts of FY 2073/74 at an audit fee of Rs.10,000/- inclusive of VAT as in last year. The AGM approved with applause the audit report of 2072/73 and to reappoint M/s. H.R. Bhatta & Associates to audit accounts of FY 2073/74 as well at the proposed rate.

2.3    Election of 10the ECM

Election committee chair Immediate Past President Mr. Shanker Prasad Paudel and members Past President Mr. Rabi Jung Pandey and Mr. Radha Krishna Bhandari appraised the admirable activities of the ninth executive committee and with the consensus of the audience, he announced continuation of the ninth executive team for a second term of two years (2017-2019) as listed below:

1.    President: Mr. Maheswor B. Shrestha
2.    General Secretary: Mr. Uttam Prasad Pant
3.    Treasurer: Mr. Hariom Dhoj Joshi
4.    Asst. Treasurer: Mrs. Shiba Devi Kafle
5.    Member: Mr. Tulasi Prasad Uprety
6.    Member: Mr. Madhav Prasad Bhatta
7.    Member: Mr. Punya Prasad Paudel
8.    Member: Mrs. Padma Vaidya
9.    Member: Dr. Prem Ratna Sthapit
10.    Member: Mr. Uttam Lal Pradhan
11.    Member: Mr. Bhisma Uprety
12.    Member: Mr. Nav Raj Nakarmi
13.    Member: Mrs. Kalpalata Dahal
14.    IPP Mr. Shanker Prasad Paudel

On the recommendation of the election committee, the nineteenth annual general meeting of the Association of British Alumni of Nepal approved, with applause, the tenth Executive Committee members of ABAN and also authorized the 10th ECM to add any new member from ABAN Life Members to fill up any vacancy:

1. Inaugural:
1.1 Dais call: MC Mrs. Namrata Sharma, past president of ABAN invited dignitaries on the dais: ABAN President Mr. Maheswor B. Shrestha as Chair of the session,
British Ambassador HE Mr. Richard C. Morris as Chief Guest,
Dr. Jovan Ilic, Country Director of British Council as Guest of Honor
Dr. Badri Bastakoti, President of Chevening Alumni Assn of Nepal, Dr. Mrigendra Raj Pandey, President of Mrigendra Samjhana Medical Trust as Special Guests,
Mr. Tulasi Prasad Uprety, Vice President, Mr. Utttam Pant, General Secretary and Mr. Hariom Dhoj Joshi, Treasurer of ABAN.

1.2 Welcome: ABAN Immediate Past President Mr. Shanker Prasad Paudel welcomed guests and members to the 20th annual general meeting of ABAN and informed about an advance public notice published in Himalayan Times daily newspaper of January 17, 2018 inviting members to attend the AGM. The AGM proceeded with over 50 members present in the meeting as required by the provision of the Statute. Mr. Paudel welcomed the chief guest, guests of honor, ABAN members and guests present in the AGM and thanked them for their support.

1.3 Inauguration: British Ambassador HE Mr. Richard C. Morris inaugurated the event by lighting oil-fed lamp in a Panas with Mangal Dhoon (auspicious tunes) in the background and released ABAN Magazine 2018. He also handed over certificates to the new members and special Certificate to the two Honorary Members of ABAN, namely Dr. Mrigendra Raj Pandey and Dr. Mahodadhi Pradhan Shrestha in recognition of their significant contribution to the Association. President Maheswor honored them with pashmina Doshallas. HE Ambassador congratulated members of the Association for successfully completing 2 decades of service and assured full support of the British embassy to the Association.

1.4 Felicitation: After self-introduction of all present in the meeting, special guest Dr. Badri Bastakoti felicitated the Association and wished for success of the AGM. Dr. Mrigendra Raj Pandey expressed his gratitude to the chief guest HE. Mr. Mr. Richard C. Morris and the Association for the honor given to him, and remembered his time in UK way back in 1957. He relished the opportunity of fellowship and recognition as ABAN Life Member since 2017.

British Council Country Director Dr. Jovan Ilic congratulated ABAN for successfully completing 20 years since its establishment and assured support in its endeavors including the printing of its publications, hall for its meetings and invited for its 21st AGM meeting next year also in the British Council hall.

1.4 ABAN DAY Address: Past President Mr. Dilli Raj Joshi, on his ABAN DAY speech gave a historical account of ABAN from its inception in 1997, remembered the significant contributions made by founder president Dr. Narayan Bahadur Thapa now represented by his wife Mrs. Jana Thapa and appreciated the good works of the 10th executive committee for reinvigorating the Association with different activities, especially involving many past presidents in its activities and for financially strengthening the Association through different fund raising activities.

1.5 General Secretary’s Annual Report
General Secretary Mr. Uttam P. Pant reported following main activities of ABAN during 2017:
a) MOU with MSMT: A memorandum of understanding was signed with Mrigendra Samjhana Medical Trust in January for providing an endowment fund of Rs.500,000/- for servicing senior citizens on annual basis,
b) 19th AGM of ABAN conducted on February 4 at the British Council hall,
c) Tax clearance of past 4 years and renewal of ABAN registration with CDO office till July 2017,
d) Service to 24 senior citizens of Tapasthali Bridhashram in Chapali on March 2 and 42 senior citizens housed in Nishahaye Sewa Sadan, Baneshwor on August 26 was done jointly with MSMT,
e) Meetings with the British Council Country Director Dr. Jovan Ilic on August 11, and with HE Ambassador Mr. Richard Morris on December 13 and January 8, 2018 with students leaving for UK on cultural exchange,
f) Talk program on Development Priorities of Nepal by ABANian Dr. Prabhu Budhathoki,
g) Publication of ABAN Magazine 2017, 2018 issues and Newsletters 16 to 21 issues. ABAN website has been redesigned in dynamic format and also issued new Membership IDs.

1.6 Treasurer’s Report
Treasurer Mr. Hari Om Dhoj Joshi presented financial statements and audit report of the Association and said that the financial strength of ABAN has improved significantly over the last 3 years, as the bank balance has increased from Rs.289,340 in July 2015 to Rs.1,530,674 in Jan. 2018. Statutory auditors M/s H.R. Bhatta & Associates have audited the accounts of ABAN for fiscal year 2073-74 in accordance with the generally accepted auditing standards, Nepal Auditing Standard and the directives of Income Tax Act and submitted their report on 2074 Poush 08. The highlights of the audited financial statements are:

• The Balance Sheet showed total source of fund (reserve, surplus and deposits) increased from Rs. 313,143.48 to Rs.945,073.45 during the year.
• Current assets, comprising bank balance, receivables and fixed deposits have reached to Rs. 967,095.18 from Rs.347,104.76 of the previous year, indicating a substantial increase in current assets of the Association.
• Current liabilities have been reduced during the year from Rs.33,961 to Rs.22,021.
• Total income from membership fee, bank interest, donations and Magazine income have crossed Rs.1 million from Rs. 225,531.41 of the previous year. Total expenditures on printing/publication, social service refreshments and AGM expenses increased to Rs.369,064 from Rs.183,364 in the previous year.
• Income during the year has exceeded expenditure, and thus created a surplus of Rs.631,929. In this way, the cumulative surplus has reached to an all time high of Rs. 945,0734.

The Association has maintained bank account with Mega Bank Ltd. and Nepal Bangladesh Bank Ltd, and as of today the Association has a interest bearing fixed deposits of Rs.1,350,000 with Mega Bank and Central Finance Company.
In view of the satisfactory performance of the Auditors in FY 2073/74, the treasurer proposed to reappoint M/s. HR Bhatta and Associates as statutory Auditors also for FY 2074/75 at an audit fee of Rs.10,000/- including VAT. The 20th AGM passed the financial reports, audit report and reappointment of auditors for FY 2074/75 by applause.

1.7 President’s Address: ABAN President Mr. Maheswor Bhakta Shrestha thanked the august gathering of life members, guests and well wishers besides the 10th executive team and subcommittee coordinators for their support and cooperation that helped ABAN to achieve some success in four key areas of Membership, Service activities, Financial strengthening and participation in programs:

1) Membership Growth: ABAN Life Members have increased by 28 since August 2015, including Nepali Ambassador of Nepal to UK HE Dr. Durga Bahadur Subedi and two Honorary Members in 2017, namely Dr. Mrigendra Raj Pandey and Dr. Mahodadi Pradhan Shrestha who have significantly contributed to the Association. Total membership has reached 422 by January 2018, including 341 Life members, 1 Associate and 80 Ordinary members.

2) Activities: Some of the activities carried out during 2015-2016 included:
a) Service to 42 senior citizens of Tapasthali Briddhashram and Nishahaya Sewa Kendra, Baneshwor, jointly with MSMT, Talk program,
b) Publication of ABAN Newsletter and ABAN Magazine 2017 and 2018,
c) Tax clearance and renewal of registration,
d) Updated ABAN Website: www.aban.org.np , now linked to www.britishcouncil.org.np

3) Financial Situation: The audited accounts showed the bank balance of Rs. 596,046 in July 2017 compared to Rs. 289,607 in July 2015. The financial situation of ABAN had a net positive addition and by 16th January 2018, the bank balance has reached an all-time high of Rs.1.4 million, including interest bearing fixed deposit of Rs.1.35 million in the banks.

4) Participation: ABAN executives are actively participating in various programs of British Council and the British Embassy, as they met British Council Country Director Dr. Jovan Ilic on August 11, 2017, the British Ambassador on December 13 and January 8, 2018, and also participated in the Christmas Carol Service on December 14. The British Ambassador met the 52 Nepalese students visiting UK in cultural exchange program also they also met the Nepalese Ambassador in UK HE Dr. Durga Bahadur Subedi at London in January 2018 and earlier on August 06, 2017. ABAN leaders also participated in the 19th Annual General Meetings of Association of Nepalese Alumni from Australia (ANAA) on January 21, 2018 as special guest.

5. Future Prospects: The Association is working hard to make a difference in the course of ABAN’s journey into the future. ABAN is now geared for speedy growth, with positive trends in membership and financial situation. Very positive response from the British Embassy and the Council is encouraging to make ABAN more effective and strong in the coming days. ABAN has definitely played its important role to strengthen Nepal- Britain relations and 20 years of its efforts have contributed in the socio-economic agendas of Nepal.

The president expressed sincere gratitude to British Ambassador to Nepal HE Mr. Richard Morris, British Council Country Director Dr. Jovan Ilic for their gracious presence in the 20th AGM. The success of the historic 20th anniversary and AGM of ABAN owes a great deal to their support, notably of Mr. Dinesh Wagle and Kapindra Neupane from the embassy and Mrs. Suchita Shrestha, Julen Pradhan and Mr. Nischal Oli of the British Council.

1. Inaugural:

1.1 Dais call: MC Mrs. Namrata Sharma, past president of ABAN invited dignitaries on the dais: ABAN President Mr. Maheswor B. Shrestha as Chair of the session,

British Council Country Director Dr. Jovan Ilic as Chief Guest, Guest Speaker Mr. Pradhumna B Shah, Honorary Member Dr. Mrigendra Raj Pandey- President of Mrigendra Samjhana Medical Trust, Vice President Mr. Tulasi Prasad Uprety, General Secretary Mr. Utttam Prasad Pant and Treasurer Mr. Hariom Dhoj Joshi.

1.2 Welcome: Vice President Mr. Tulasi Uprety welcomed guests and members to the 21^st AGM and informed about advance notice published in Annapurna Post of January 12, 2019 inviting members to attend the AGM and election of 11^th ECM. The AGM proceeded with over 50 members attending in the meeting as required quorum. Mr. Uprety welcomed chief guest, ABAN members and guests and journalists present in the AGM and thanked them for their support. All members and guests present gave their self-introduction briefly.

1.3 Inaugural Session:  British Council Country Director Dr. Jovan Ilic inaugurated the AGM by lighting oil-fed lamp in a Panas with Mangal Dhoon (auspicious tunes) in the background and released ABAN Membership Directory 2019. He also handed over Membership ID Cards to members. Guest Speaker Mr. Pradhumna B Shah, a career Diplomat and former Nepalese Ambassador to Brazil presented a brief yet comprehensive review of Nepal- Britain Relations. The Chief guest and ABAN president presented him a Token of Appreciation.

1.4 Felicitation: British Council Country Director Dr. Jovan Ilic congratulated ABAN for successfully completing 20 years and lauded its achievements while assuring his full support in its activities including printing of its publications, hall for its meetings and invited for its 22nd AGM next year also in the British Council hall. He challenged ABAN to come up with stories of the most significant achievements of the British Alumni in Nepal for the development of Nepal and offered to sponsor an event to honor those Alumni for their successes. Honorary Member Dr. Mrigendra Raj Pandey presented a Token of Appreciation to Dr. Jivan Ilic.

1.5 President’s Address: President Mr. Maheswor Bhakta Shrestha thanked the chief guest, guest speaker, honorary member, ABAN life members, guests and well wishers for their gracious presence and support that has inspired executive members to do their best for the cause of ABAN.  He thanked the sub-committee members for working in three key areas of Membership development, Activities to fulfil the objectives of ABAN and Financial strength:

1) Membership: Membership is gradually increasing from 246 in 2001 to 430 by January 2019. 40 new Life members were inducted since August 2015, after a period of stagnation for the past 3 years. In 2017, two Honorary members, namely Dr. Mrigendra Raj Pandey and Dr. Mahodadhi Pradhan Shrestha contributed an Endowment Fund of Rs.500,000/- each. Their contributions is significant in the history of ABAN.

2) Activities: During the 2017-2018 term, many executive members were visiting USA, UK, Australia and other countries for prolonged period of time. So, the few activities carried out during the period include:

1. Signing of MOU with Mrigendra Samjhana Medical Trust to serve senior citizen of Tapasthali Bridhashram, and Nishahaya Sewa Kendra annually.
2. Talk programs on “Development priorities of Nepal in the changing context”- by Dr. Prabhu Budhathoki, Member National Planning Commission on November 12, 2017, and Nepal- UK Relations by Mr. Pradhumna Shah on June 10, 2018.
3. Publication of ABAN Magazine 2017 and 2018 and Membership Directory 2019, funded by the British Council to meet their printing cost.
4. Published 17 issues of ABAN Newsletter during January 2017 to January 2019, circulated by email and featured in aban.org.np.
5. ABAN Website: aban.org.np has been updated in dynamic format and linked to www.britishcouncil.org.np from September 2017 for wider readership.
6. ABAN organized Family Picnics at Doleshwor Mahadev in November 2017 and at Sirutar Bhaktapur in May 2018 most successfully.
7. ABAN Registration with CDO office, pending for several years, has been renewed up to July 2017 (Ashad 2074) with Tax clearance from Internal Revenue Office, Lazimpat.
8. Educational Exchange: General Secretary Mr. Uttam Pant organized winter and summer camps for Nepali students to UK for educational and cultural exchange.

3) Financial Situation: As of January 15, 2019 (1^st Magha 2075) bank balance of ABAN reached Rs.1,551,000, compared to Rs.930,673 in July 2017 and Rs.289,607 in July 2015. Audit reports showed a healthy annual surplus of Rs.570,267 in July 2018 and Rs.631,929 in July 2017. A fixed deposit of Rs.1.37 million in the banks will generate annual interest income to carry out its regular activities smoothly.

The president expressed sincere gratitude to British Ambassador to Nepal HE Mr. Richard Morris and British Council Director Dr. Jovan Ilic for their support.

2. Business Session & Election of 11^th ECM:

2.1 Annual Report: General Secretary Mr. Uttam Prasad Pant presented the main activities of ABAN during 2017-19:

1. MOU signed with Mrigendra Samjhana Medical Trust MSMT for an endowment fund of Rs.500,000/- to serve senior citizens on annual basis,
2. 20th AGM of ABAN conducted on February 4 at the British Council hall,
3. Tax clearance of past 4 years and renewal of ABAN registration with CDO office till July 2017,
4. Service to senior citizens of Tapasthali Bridhashram in Chapali in February and in Nishahaye Sewa Sadan, Baneshwor in September done jointly with MSMT,
5. Meetings with British Council Country Director Dr. Jovan Ilic on August 11, and with HE Ambassador Mr. Richard Morris on December 13 and January 8, 2018 with students leaving for UK on cultural exchange,
6. Talk program on Development Priorities of Nepal by ABANian Dr. Prabhu Budhathoki on November 10 and on Nepal- UK Relations by Mr. Pradhumna Shah on June 10, 2018,
7. Publication of ABAN Magazine 2017, 2018 issues, Newsletters 16 to 30 issues and Membership Directory 2019. ABAN website has been redesigned in dynamic format and also issued new Membership IDs.

2.2 Treasurer’s Report: Treasurer Mr. Hari Om Dhoj Joshi presented financial statements and audit report of the Association and said that the financial strength of ABAN has improved over the years, as the bank balance has increased to Rs.1,528,591 in July 2018. Statutory auditors M/s H.R. Bhatta & Associates have audited the accounts of ABAN for fiscal year 2074-75 (2017-18) in accordance with the generally accepted auditing standards, Nepal Auditing Standard and the directives of Income Tax Act and submitted their report on 2075 Magha 16. The highlights of the audited financial statements are:

• The Balance Sheet showed total source of fund (reserve, surplus and deposits) increased to Rs.15515,341.22 from Rs.945,073.45 during the previous year.
• Current assets, comprising bank balance, receivables and fixed deposits have reached to Rs.1,549,935.37 from Rs. 967,095.18 of the previous year, indicating a substantial increase in current assets of the Association.
• Current liabilities has increased to Rs.34,594.15 during the year.
• Total income from membership fee, bank interest, donations and Magazine income has reached Rs.954,436.97 from just over Rs.1 million of the previous year.
• Total expenditures on printing/publication, social service refreshments and AGM expenses has increased to Rs.384,169.20 from Rs.369,064 in the previous year.
• A surplus of income during over the expenditure was Rs.570,267.77 during 2073/74 compared to Rs.631,929 in the previous year.  Thus, the net current asset has reached to an all time high of Rs.1515,341.22 from Rs.945,073.45 of the previous year.

The Association has maintained bank account with Mega Bank Ltd. and Nepal Bangladesh Bank Ltd, and as of today the Association has an interest bearing fixed deposit of Rs.1,370,000/- in Mega Bank and Central Finance Co.

The treasurer proposed to appoint M/s. A.R. Joshi & Co. Chartered Accountants, Naxal, Kathmandu, Nepal as statutory Auditors for FY 2075/76 at an audit fee of Rs.10,000/- including VAT. The 21^st Annual General Meeting passed the annual/ financial reports, audit report and appointment of auditors for FY 2075/76 as proposed by applause.  

2.3 Election of 11^th ECM: A three- member Election committee consisted of:

IPP Mr. Shanker Prasad Paudel                   Coordinator

V.P. Mr. Tulasi Prasad Uprety                      Member

Lawyer Mr. Radha Krishna Bhandary       Member

Coordinator Mr. Shanker Paudel informed that a notice about the Election of the 11^th Executive Committee was published on January 12, 2019 in the Annapurna Post. Since there was no contesting candidate, the Coordinator declared the 11th Executive Committee under the presidency of Mr. Uttam Prasad Pant unopposed:

1. President Uttam Prasad Pant (ID 144)
2. Vice President Padma Vaidya (ID 51)
3. General Secretary Shiba Devi Kafle (D 171)
4. Treasurer Madhav Prasad Bhatta (ID 68)
5. General Secretary Mr. Hemanta Raj Baral (ID 527)
6. Treasurer Mr. Nava Raj Nakarmi (ID 276)
7. Member Uttam Lal Pradhan (ID 305)
8. Member Mandira Shahi (ID 234)
9. Member Deepak KC (ID 446)
10. Member Urek Ranjit (ID 508)
11. Member Iswar Man Pradhan (ID 522)
12. Member Prem Raj Khanal (ID 525)
13. Member Dinesh Pradhan (ID 528)
14. Immediate Past President Maheswor Bhakta Shrestha

The election coordinator congratulated newly elected office bearers. Newly elected president Mr. Pant addressed the meeting and presented his vision for the coming years. The outgoing president thanked all members for their valuable support and congratulated the new team and wished them every success. The AGM was concluded and was followed by light refreshment.

1. Inauguration: The meeting was presided over by ABAN president Mr. Uttam Prasad Pant, where vice president Padama Vaidya welcomed the past president MR. Dilli Raj Joshi , Immediate Past President Mr. Maheshwor Bhakta Shrestha, executive members, life members of ABAN and other guests invited on the occasion . Chief Guest Immediate Past President Mr. Maheswor inaugurated the event by lighting oil-fed in a Panas.

2. Quorum: As per the provision of ABAN Statute 2064 (article 11 c), the AGM was delayed for 30 minutes to meet the required quorum and after enlistment of 50 members, the business of the AGM was proceeded as per the predetermined agendas.

3. Presidential Opening Address and presentation of ABAN Activity report for 2018-2019: Current ABAN President Mr. Uttam Prasad Pant thanked the chief guest, guest speaker, honorary member, ABAN life members, guests and well wishers and on behalf of general secretary Ms. Shiba Kafle (on her absence) presented the annual activity of 2018-19 and reported six executive committing as well all other related activities as mentioned below:
• Service to senior citizens at Tapasthali
• Meeting with British Council’s country director Dr. Jovan Ilic on March 8, 2019
• Talk programmes by Mr. Purushottam Shamsher Rana on Nepal-Britain relations, by Dr. Ram Prasad Pokharel and Dr. Min Bahadur Shrestha
• Visit to CVM Kindergarten Preschool
• Signing of MOU for IELTS registration
• Meeting with ECAN , IERIN and NECA for working together to promote British Education in Nepal.

3. Address by Immediate Past President: In his address, IPP Maheswor Bhakta Shrestha reviewed the recent times in ABAN and expressed satisfaction on the steady growth of membership and financial with nearly NPR 1.5 millions In the bank a/c . In this respect special thanks given to ABAN’s first two honorary members Dr. Mrigendra Raj Pandey and Dr. Mahodadi Pradhan Shrestha for contributing rupees five lakhs in the ABAN’s endowment fund. IPP Mr. Maheswor also thanked Mr. Richard Morris for his instant support and Dr. Jovan ILIC, Country Director of the British Council Nepal for his continuous support to ABAN. With the new energetic team of ABAN Executive members led by dynamic president Mr. Uttam Prasad Pant, he said the future of the ABAN in safe hands. Lastly, he handed over a bank cheque of Rs.100,000/- (one lac) to ABAN Treasurer as his contribution towards ABAN Endowment fund in order to strengthen ABAN financially.

4. Treasure Report and Approval of Annual Audited Financials and reappointment of Statutory Auditors: Treasure Mr. Madhav Prasad Bhatta presented the financial and audit reports of ABAN prepared by independent Auditors M/s A. R. Joshi & Co. for fiscal year 2018/19 and the 22nd AGM passed the reports and authorized to published it for the information of its members. The main highlight of ABAN audited accounts were;
• Annual Income Rs. 1,83,977/-
• Annual Expenses Rs. 2,75,215/-
• Surplus /(Deficit) Rs. (91,238)/-

Besides approval of audit financials, AGM also passed the resolution to reappoint M/s A.R. Joshi & Co. as the statutory auditors for Financial Year 2019/20 (i.e FY 2076-77).

5. Concluding Remarks by President: Current President Mr. Uttam Prasad Pant on the presidential highlighted that:
• ABAN would like to play an important role in promoting British Education in Nepal in the light of recent re-introduction of 2 years of post study work permit for internationals students.
• Organise British Education Fair in Nepal in association with British Council and British University / colleges.
• Organise FAM trip trip for ABAN members to visit UK colleges and universities.
• Establish British Education information centre with seminar venue to promote higher education in Great Britain with relevant its contribution in continuous skill improvement and level of development Nepalese human resources.
• Documentation of British Education experience of ABAN members and their contribution in Nepal,
• ABAN Magazine 2019 will focus on different aspects of British Education in Nepal.

6. Major agenda presented and approved in the Annual General Meeting :

• Approval of Audited Financials of 2018/2019
• Presentation of Annual Report for Year 2018/2019
• Reappointment of Statutory Auditor Chartered Accountants M/s Achyut Raj Joshi & Co. for Financial Year 2076-77 (Year 2019-20).

23rd Annual General Meeting of the Association of British Alumni in Nepal (ABAN) was held on 2nd January 2021 in Kathmandu. The MC of the program was Mr. Hemanta Raj Baral, assistant general secretary.
In the beginning, President Uttam Prasad Pant called the AGM to order and welcomed all participants. In his opening speech president Pant highlighted on the effect of COVID 19 pandemic around the world. He said due to the unforeseen challenges posed by 2020, ABAN’s planned activities for the review year were also significantly affected. He expressed his commitment to make the year 2021 more eventful for ABAN by giving continuity to all initiatives. He also highlighted on the vision and plan for future activities.
Vice President Ms. Padma Baidya delivered the welcome address. Past president Mr. Shankar Prasad Poudel gave a felicitation speech. There was a silent invocation to remember Charter President Dr. Narayan Bahadur Thapa. After that, AGM participants observed Tabala recital program by Dheeraj Shrestha.
After these ritual activities, General Secretary Ms. Shiba Devi Kafle presented the annual activity report ABAN. She summarized the activities performed during the year 2019/20 as below:
1. Executive Committee Meetings
During the year, the 11th Executive Committee of ABAN had 12 Meetings in different dates:

•  9th ECM on 19th November 2019 – Preparatory meeting for ABAN Magazine 2019-20
• 10th ECM on 20th December 2019 – Preparatory meeting for the publication of ABAN Diary 2020
• 11th ECM on 4th January 2020 for the preparation of ABAN Day celebration
• 12 th ECM on 26th January, 2020 – for ABAN Day preparation, forthcoming talk program and other issues
• 13 th ECM on 9th February, 2020 – for briefing of ABAN Day celebration and other relevant issues
• 14 th ECM on 8th March, 2020 to discuss about the feasibility study for health camp organization done by vice president Padma Baidya and ECM Member Uttam Lal Shrestha and other current issues
• 15th ECM on 18 th March, 2020 on the forthcoming ABAN activities like health camp organization in Sankhu and other issues. However, due to the unfavourable situation caused by COVID 19 pandemic, this activity could not be materialized.
• 16th ECM on 21st October2020 to exchange the greetings for upcoming festivals and to discuss other relevant issues
• 17th ECM on 18th November, 2020 to discuss about the arrangement of condolence meeting on the demise of Founder President Dr. Narayan Bahadur Thapa and other current issues.
• 18th ECM on 9 th December, 2020 for the preparation of upcoming AGM and other issues
• 19 th ECM on 20 th December, 2020 to discuss on the prepared financials of ABAN for 2019/20 and other related issues
• 20 th ECM on 27 th December, 2020 as a pre-AGM meeting for finalizing the AGM related matters.

2. Activities/Programs
Following programs were organized during the review year:
1. 31st January 2020 – Talk program by Mr. Lee Edward John Doman – Hayes on the topic ‘My Journey from England to Nepal’
2. 4th February 2020 – ABAN Day celebration at Hotel Shangrila, Lazimpat, Kathmandu, the chief guest being the British Ambassador Ms. Nicola Kathryn Pollit.
3. 28th May 2020 – ABAN Yoga Meditation Class
4. 21st November 2020 – Arrangement of a condolence meeting via zoom on the demise of Founder President of ABAN Dr. Narayan Bahadur Thapa. Mr. Ravi Thapa, the son of late Dr. Thapa and all ABAN members were invited to observe a period of mourning on that day.
5. 26th December 2020 – Talk program by Pramod Dhakal, Ph.D. on पूर्वीय दर्शनको पुनर व्याख्या-२०७६ (Reinterpretation of Eastern Philosophy-2019) via zoom.
6. 29th December, 2020 – Annual visit to Tapasthali Old Age Home, Chapali, Budhnilkantha to distribute health related things like medicines and other materials as demanded by the Ashram. Vice President Ms. Padma Baidya and ECM Member Mr. Uttam Lal Shrestha handed over the materials on behalf of ABAN and Mrigendra Samjhana Medical Trust (MSMT), who is funding the program.
7. Publications:
1. ABAN has published 3 issues of ABAN News Letters (No. 7, 8 and 9) during the review period.
2. Published ABAN Diary 2020-21
3. Released ABAN Magazine Issue no. 10 for 2019-20
4. Published ABAN Information Leaflet
5. Updated ABAN Website.
6. Produced a documentary on founder President Late Dr. Narayan Bahadur Thapa and put it in the YouTube.

1. Progress on IELTS Exam Registration by ABAN
ABAN has started registering candidate for the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) examination since April 11, 2019 after an agreement with the British Council. So far, ABAN has registered 104 candidates for IELTS exam to date. This activity has supported ABAN financially to some extent.
2. New Membership:
During 2019-2020, altogether 12 new Life Members joined ABAN. The new members are:
New Life Members Joining from February 2019
1. Mr. Dinesh Pradhan (ID 528) on Feb.9, 2019
2. Dr. Jovan Ilic (ID 529) on February 9, 2019.
3. Mr. Subas KC (ID 530) on May 14, 2019.
4. Mr. Anup Acharya (ID 531) on May 14, 2019
5. Mr. Surendra Prasad Lohani (ID 532) “
6. Mr. Jagdish Kumar Khoju (ID 533) on May 14
7. Mrs. Indu Tuladhar (ID 534) on May 14, 2019
8. Mr. Kumar Prasad Khanal (ID535) 28 Jul 2019
9. Mrs. Romi Manandhar (ID536) on 28 July 2019
10. Mr. Sindhu Lal Shrestha (ID537) on 23 Aug.2019
11. Mr. Bhubanesh Kumar Pradhan (ID 538) on 27 Dec. 2020
12. Ms. Roma Balami (ID 539) on 27 Dec. 2020
General Secretary Kafle informed all ABAN members that ABAN is in the process of compiling the profiles of all ABAN members. In this context, she requested them to send their profiles to ABAN. With these words, General Secretary Kafle concluded her report.
After that, Treasurer Madhav Prasad Bhatta presented his report highlighting the main features of financials of ABAN for FY 2076/77. Following this, floor was opened for questions and discussion. After the response of all queries of the participants by the president, the floor approved the following proposals:
1. To pass the annual report
2. To discuss and pass the Auditors Report
3. To appoint the auditor for FY 2077/78 and to fix the remuneration for him/her
After that, vote of thanks was delivered by the past president Maheshwor Bhakta Shrestha.
Finally, President Pant gave the closing remarks and the session was closed.
Since the 11th Executive Committee had completed its 2 years tenure, 23rd AGM had to form 12th Executive Committee. For this, a three-member election committee was formed as below:
– Immediate Past President Maheshwor Bhakta Shrestha – Coordinator
– Past President Shankar Prasad Poudel – Member
– Past Vice President Tulsi Prasad Upreti – Member
In this connection, the election committee called applications of candidates for different posts. Only 4 applications were received for 4 members’ seats. Accordingly, the 23rd AGM resumed the 11th Executive Committee for 12th Executive Committee as well replacing only 4 former members. The formation of 12th Executive Committee of ABAN is as below:
Mr. Uttam Prasad Pant – President
Ms. Padma Baidya – Vice President
Ms. Shiba Devi Kafle – General Secretary
Mr. Madhav Prasad Bhatta – Treasurer
Mr. Hemanta Raj Baral – Assitant General Secretary
Mr. Nava Raj Nakarmi – Assitant Treasurer
Mr. Uttam Lal Pradhan – Member
Ms. Mandira Shahi – Member
Mr. Deepak KC – Member
Ms. Kamal Nayan Pradhan – Member
Mr. Gobinda Neupane – Member
Mr. Jagan Nath Shrestha – Member
Prof. Dr. Subas KC – Member
Mr. Maheshwor Bhakta Shrestha – Immediate Past President Member

24th Annual General Meeting of the Association of British Alumni in Nepal (ABAN) was held on 26th March 2022 in Kathmandu. The MC of the program was Mr. Hemanta Raj Baral, assistant general secretary of ABAN.
In the beginning, President Uttam Prasad Pant called the AGM to order and welcomed all participants. Following this, all participants of AGM gave their introduction in a very interesting way. After that, Vice President Ms. Padma Baidya delivered the welcome address followed by a silent invocation to remember ABAN member late Mr Gopal Shakti Pradhan, Prince Philip of United Kingdom, and immediate past ambassador Mr. Richard Morris.
After these activities, General Secretary Ms. Shiba Devi Kafle presented the annual activity report of ABAN. She summarized the activities performed during the year 2021/22 (to date) as below:
1. Executive Committee Meetings
During the review period, the 12th Executive Committee of ABAN had altogether 18 Meetings: 10 meetings in physical presence and 8 meetings virtually
2. Activities/Programs
Following programs were organized during the review year:
1. 23rd ABAN Day Celebration on 4th February 2021
2. Introductory meeting with British Council on 17 February 2021 forwarding some agenda for collaboration. In this regard, agreed actions were:
1. ABAN to invite British Council to join and/or speak at future events as appropriate
2. British Council to explore a possibility of offering Plab exams for medical professionals
3. British Council to share additional information on current UK scholarships and discuss the British Council-Alumni strategy once finalized, and explore joint common opportunities
4. ABAN to provide a list of on-line short courses that could be offered by the UK universities or colleges to ABAN members, and British Council to facilitate introductions
3. Talk Program on ‘Role of Youth in Science, Technology and Innovation in Nepal’ by ABAN Life Member Dr. Jiba Raj Pokharel on 2nd April, 2021 virtually
4. Talk Program on ‘Enhancing Emotional Health and Spiritual Well-Being’ by Mr. LP Bhanu Sharma, Life Coach of Jeevan Vigyan Foundation, Nepal on June 20, 2021 virtually
5. 7 Days Yoga and Wellness Program to ABAN members and their families and guests by Er. Karuna Amatya, Instructor, Jeevan Vigyan Foundation, Nepal, during 22-28 June 2021 virtually
6. Talk program on ‘Diabetes Mellitus : An Overview’ by Dr. Dipak Malla, Assistant Professor, National Academy of Medical Sciences, on 26th June 2021 virtually
7. Medical support to Children Care Club, Pasikot, Budhanilkantha, Kathmandu on August 14, 2021 by providing 36 medical equipment and supplies.
8. Provided electric kettle to Tapasthali Briddhashram and distributed some stationaries and fruits to Children Care Club, Pasikot as per their need in January 2022.
9. Meeting with British Council: ABAN Executive members met British Council Country Director Ms. Shahida Dougall and Ms. Suchita Shrestha of the Council on 11th November at ULCI Hall, Dillibazar Height with some agenda. This meeting was to request the Council to materialize the agreed actions of collaboration.
1. Publications:
1. ABAN published ABAN News Letters regularly during the review period except in few months due to Covid-19 lockdown.
2. Published ABAN Diary 2020-21
3. Due to the unusual situation, ABAN Magazine this year could not be published. Next publication of No. 11 will be in 2022-23 to celebrate 25th Silver Jubilee of ABAN.
4. Published ECM Member’s Profile in 2021-22
5. Published ABAN Information Leaflet
6. Updated ABAN Website.
7. Video programs have been prepared and released on YouTube covering the story of ABAN Past Presidents, Life Members and Guests as below:
– Honorary Member Dr. Mrigendra Raj Pandey
– Past President Dr. Narayan Bahadur Thapa
– Past President Mr. Raghu Pant
– Past President Mr. Maheshwor Bhakta Shrestha
– Life Member Dr. Badri Raj Pandey
– Guest speaker Dr. Ram Prasad Pokhrel
– Guest speaker Mr. Purushottam Shamsher JB Rana,
– Guest Speaker Dr. Min Bahadur Shrestha
2. Progress on IELTS Exam Registration by ABAN
ABAN has started registering candidates for the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) examination since April 11, 2019 after an agreement with the British Council. During 2020, ABAN registered 104 candidates for IELTS exam. During the review year, 17 candidates were registered for this exam. This activity has supported ABAN financially to some extent.

• During the review period, Potential candidates received and were satisfied with – administrative supports for admission to academic and professional programs facilitated by ABAN.
• Examinations of academic and professional programs were conducted locally on behalf of British Institutions.
• Market for British professional education and training programs in local market explored and established from both demand and supply sides.
• British professional education and training programs facilitated in the local market on behalf of British Institutions.
• Capacity development programs for ABAN members and their institutions designed and delivered

3. New Membership Joining from 2021:
During 2021-2022 (to date), altogether 13 new Life Members joined ABAN. The new members are:
1. Mr. Ram Hari Adhikari (ID540) on 24 January 2021
2. Ms. Sunita Basnet (ID 541) on Jan 24, 2021
3. Dr. Sudha Shrestha (ID 86) on Jan.24, 2021
4. Mr. Satyendra Khadgi (ID 542) on Feb. 2021
5. Mr. Lusan Nakarmi (ID 543) on March 5, 2021
6. Dr Ramesh Khadka (ID 544) on March 7, 2022
7. Mr. Dasarath Moktan (ID 545) on March 7, 2022
8. Mr. Purusottam Prasad Khatiwada (ID 546) on March 7, 2022
9. Mr. Prem Sambyu (ID 547) on March 7, 2022
10. Mr. Purna Bahadur Chemjung (ID 548) on March 7, 2022
11. Mr. Prem Neupane (ID 549) on March 7, 2022
12. Mr. Kulchandra Dahal (ID 550)
13. Dr. Sitaram Basnet (ID 551)
14. Mr. Prem Kumar Ale (ID 552)
15. Mr. Ashok Shahi (ID 553)
16. Mr. Babu Ram Gurung (ID 554)
17. Navin Hada (ID 555)
General Secretary Kafle reiterated that the period of last two years were very challenging in Nepal and elsewhere due to Covid-19 Pandemic affecting life style of people like limiting activities at home, meeting virtually, cancelling programs requiring physical presence etc. She added we have to do a lot once the situation comes in normalcy. ABAN is approaching its 25th Silver Jubilee next year on February 4, 2023 and we have to work to make it a memorable and historic event. She requested all members to work together to materialize the dreams that was dreamt together to uplift ABAN to a greater height.
With these words General Secretary Ms. Kafle concluded her report.

After that, Treasurer Madhav Prasad Bhatta presented his report highlighting the main features of financials of ABAN for FY 2077/78.
As decided in the 17th meeting of 12th Executive Committee, President Uttam Prasad Pant presented a proposal to the AGM recommending for the amendment of ABAN Statute in two areas, namely:
A) Section 7: Membership fee will be revised:
a) Life Membership fee will be Rs. 5,000/- in keeping with the inflation in the two decades, and will be subsequently changed by the decision of the Executive Committee,
b) Ordinary membership and Registration fees will be deleted.
B) Section 12 a): The Annual General Meeting will form a 13 members Executive Committee by election for a term of three years.
After that, floor was opened for questions and discussions. After the response of all queries of the participants by the president, the AGM approved the special proposal for the amendment of ABAN Statute together with following proposals:
1. To pass the annual report
2. To pass the Auditor’s Report
3. To appoint the auditor for FY 2077/78 and fix the remuneration for him/her
Finally, President Uttam Prasad Pant delivered the closing remarks. The full version of his speech is as below:

Honorable ABAN Executive Board Members, Representatives of other Alumni Associations, Distinguished Guests, Colleagues, and friends:

On behalf of The Association of British Alumni in Nepal (ABAN), I would like thank you for giving your valuable time to attend the Annual AGM today.

It is not every day that we get to meet each other like this. So, apart from our regular programs, the Annual AGM has also given us the opportunity to meet and talk to each other at least once a year. It is indeed very good to see everyone here today.

It is obvious to all of us that the past three years have been clouded by the impact of COVID around the world. As such, in ABAN too, we had to remain vigilant in our activities and programs, keeping them to the minimal for the safety and wellbeing of everyone. We are now seeing some light at the end of the tunnel with life returning back to normal, and we look forward to increasing our activity in the near future.

On this note, it has also been 24 years since the establishment of ABAN and the next year we will be celebrating our silver jubilee.

In order to celebrate the occasion, I would like to put forward some of my thoughts today and get your valuable suggestions. Here, I would like to point out that every time we discuss various ideas, we only talk about what ABAN should do. However, this time, I would also like to talk about what ABAN should or can do for the individual ABAN members.

We can have discussions on the following programs:

1. Nepal – UK Bilateral Celebration Program 2022
2. ABAN Photo Exhibition
3. British Education Fair
4. ABAN Special Fund
5. Publish Silver Jubilee Magazine
6. Talk Programs

1. Nepal – UK Bilateral Celebration Program 2022

Nepal and UK bilateral relationships go a long way, and there are many historical events and facts to be explored about the contributions of British alumni of Nepali descent in fostering these relationships. We could celebrate these contributions in our silver jubilee event. We could also conduct this event as an ABAN Photo Exhibition demonstrating these contributions and invite the education minister and the British ambassador in the program to talk about these contributions.

2. ABAN Photo Exhibition:

In addition to the idea I just mentioned, we can also think about the ABAN Photo Exhibition from a more personal perspective. I am sure we all have some wonderful experiences during our stay in the UK. Let us share those moments with others by collecting photographs of such moments and organizing a one-day-photo-exhibition. Not only would this be nostalgic to all of us, it would also allow us to celebrate the varied experiences we all had in the UK.

3. The British Education Fair

Many Nepalese students are now opting to study in the UK. Let’s organize an “ABAN British Education Fair”, with the goal of promoting British Education in Nepal. As British alumni, we can all agree that the UK education system is great for higher education, and other Nepali students should take benefit of higher education in the UK.
We can organize the fair on 8th May, 2022. We already have 5 universities and 3 international educational organizations interested to participate in the fair, which include:

1. University of West Scotland
2. London South Bank University
3. Aberdeen University
4. Chester University
5. Aston University
6. Oxford International Education Group
7. Study Group
8. Navitas

4. ABAN Special Fund

For this, ABAN can allocate a certain percentage of fund received from its members, donations or received from various programs and create an “ABAN Special Fund”.
This fund will be used in emergency to help ABAN members for:

1. Medical treatment of ABAN members
2. Cover expectedness during deaths of immediate family members
3. And other emergent situations

Of course, it is not possible to cover 100% expenses of the abovementioned situations, but a certain fixed amount can be made available in different situations based on severity.

5. Publish a Silver Jubilee Magazine
To celebrate the silver jubilee, it is important to publish an ABAN Silver Jubilee Magazine. For this, we can use the photographs from the exhibition to cover 50 % of the content and the remaining 50% we can collect articles and the memories related to the exhibition photographs from the ABAN members.

6.Talk Programs
As for talk programs we will continue to organize them from time to time. However, there are many professionals in the UK and Nepal who are not ABAN Members; we can invite them too, to give talks on their field of expertise. On 15th April, we have already scheduled an event on that front. (Mention the invitation card)
As I said, these are just my thoughts for discussions; your valuable suggestions will be highly appreciated as we moved towards planning this important occasion. I look forward to your cooperation as we do further planning and execution.

Finally, I would like to thank you all for giving your valuable time to be present at this program today.

Special thanks to those who worked so hard to make today’s program a success.

Thank you

Uttam Prasad Pant
President
Association of British Alumni in Nepal (ABAN)
Kathmandu, Nepal
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.aban.org.np

After the President’s speech, vote of thanks was delivered by the past president Maheshwor Bhakta Shrestha. During his speech, Mr. Shrrestha highlighted upon the current two endowment funds of ABAN and the contributors of these funds: Dr. Mrigendra Raj Pandey and Dr. Mahodadi Shrestha Pradhan. He appreciated the cash contribution of Rs. 50,000 to ABAN by President Uttam Prasad Pant. He also remembered the incidents that he contributed amount in different time including Rs. 1,00,000 by which he became the honorary member of ABAN. With these references, he called for such contributions from all ABAN members as per their convenience to strengthen ABAN financially.
After vote of thanks, the 24th AGM was adjourned.