Tulasi Sharan Sigdel

College Scholarship Program Alumnus

Master of Arts in Rural Development, Tribhuvan University, 2004
Senior Director of Studies, Dept. of Governance & Development Management and the Center for Federalism Studies at Nepal Administrative Staff College

Tulasi was the 10th child in a subsistence farming family in rural Nepal. The nearest school was a 90 minute walk away, through a dense forest, and daily expenses were a constant struggle. After completing the 10th grade, Tulasi had to manage education expenses on his own—so he became a full-time teacher and completed his undergrad studies by attending early morning classes before work.

Then he learned about a new master’s program in Rural Development at Tribhuvan University. He knew he could use this education to improve life for communities like his, but managing the expenses in Kathmandu would be a huge challenge.

That’s when he learned about NYF’s College Scholarship Program. “That opportunity changed the entire course of my life.”

“There were widespread rumors that it would be impossible to get the scholarship without influence or connections with those in higher positions,” Tulasi recalls. “But I chose to trust NYF’s process instead of those rumors. The organizational values upheld by NYF became guiding principles for me. They remain exemplary in my life.”

Tulasi received an NYF scholarship from 2002-2004, allowing him to fully dedicate his time to his studies. The gift of focus resulted in academic excellence. He distinguished himself so much that immediately upon graduating, he was offered a teaching position in the same department—the beginning of a massively impactful career training government employees.

Tulasi’s professional life has always revolved around teaching, learning, and research. “Strengthening human resources in government and public institutions is one of the most effective ways to contribute to national development,” he says.

Today, Tulasi provides training and advisory services to government and public sector employees. In his leadership role, he helps design programs, research initiatives, and supports policy formulation for all three tiers of the Nepal government. He also provides crucial provincial-level training for rural governments.