The Ullens Education Foundation (UEF) has officially announced a major leadership restructuring alongside the successful physical reconstruction of its facilities following the arson and vandalism incidents of September 2025.
From destruction to reconstruction
The Foundation reported that the attacks on September 9 last year resulted in damages totaling approximately Rs 1.25 billion, destroying five buildings in Khumaltar, three in Bansbari, and the Outdoor Learning Center in Nala, Kavre.
Despite the immense physical and emotional toll, UEF has completed the reconstruction of Ullens School Kathmandu in just five months, returning it to full operational capacity. While reconstruction at the Lalitpur campus is ongoing, several buildings are already hosting classes again. In a move toward sustainability, the Foundation is also replacing its destroyed vehicle fleet with eco-friendly electric buses.
Leadership overhaul
To foster transparency and institutional excellence, the Foundation has revamped its Board of Trustees and School Management Committee (SMC). The new appointments, approved during a recent "Town Hall" and subsequent General Meeting, include Prof. Dr. Bhola Thapa, former vice-chancellor of Kathmandu University, who takes over as chairperson of the SMC, succeeding Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba, Mr Pradhyumna Kumar Khanal, a veteran banking expert with over three decades of experience at Nepal Rastra Bank and Dr. Manish Thapa, an expert in education and security.
In a significant internal overhaul, Ms Ekta Rana has been appointed as the new Principal of Ullens School, Lalitpur. A veteran educator with 20 years at the institution and a Master’s from Bank Street College of Education, Ms Rana is widely recognized for her expertise in progressive pedagogy.
The outgoing Principal, Mr Medin Bahadur Lamichhane, will transition into the role of Chief Academic Officer (CAO) of the Foundation. In this capacity, he will focus on curriculum development, teacher training, and professional growth across all UEF programs, including Ullens College and the Ullens Center for Educator Development (UCED).
Looking ahead
Founder Chairperson Som Paneru expressed confidence that this blend of veteran experience and new leadership would propel the Foundation toward its long-term goal of establishing Ullens University. The Foundation extended its heartfelt gratitude to parents, civil society, and the Lalitpur Metropolitan City for their unwavering support during its recovery.
.
