Kathmandu, Aug. 14 -- Kathmandu University has appointed Professor Bivek Baral as its new vice-chancellor.

Prime Minister and university Chancellor Balendra Shah appointed Baral to the post on Friday.

Baral studied mechanical engineering at Kathmandu University in 1999, becoming the first person educated at the university to rise to the position of vice-chancellor.

A selection committee led by Education Minister and Pro-Chancellor Sasmit Pokharel had invited applications for the position.

Thirty-five candidates applied, of whom 10 were shortlisted. After evaluating their work plans and vision statements, the committee interviewed the shortlisted candidates and recommended three names, including Baral, for appointment.

According to so...