Prakash Dhakal: Research-based learning in Health Business Management led to real-world transformation in Nepal
Before starting to study at Metropolia, Prakas Dhakal had gained academic and professional experience in Nepal, Europe and in Africa. He looked for a programme that would bring all his experiences together and help to deepen his knowledge in health, social services, business and leadership.
“The Health Business Management programme in Metropolia matched my goals perfectly. Its multidisciplinary approach, international atmosphere, and strong focus on innovation, service development and strategic thinking convinced me that this was the right next step. I wanted to understand how health and social-care services can be developed sustainably, especially in global and resource-limited settings”.
Students from diverse backgrounds learn how to navigate both the business side and the service side of the health and social-services field
According to Prakash Dhakal studying in the Health Business Management programme (2020) was both demanding and rewarding.
“I was working full-time in substance abuse and homelessness for the Deaconess Foundation and supporting my family. The flexible and blended learning model allowed me to balance all those.” He added, “The classroom environment was inspiring, with students coming from business, engineering, health care and social services backgrounds. Their diverse perspectives enriched every discussion and helped everyone approach problems from many different angles.”
“I would recommend the Health Business Management programme to social and health-care professionals aiming for leadership roles, to engineers and IT specialists working with health and welfare technologies, and to business professionals who wish to enter and contribute into the social and health sector. I would also recommend it to anyone who wants to understand health services from a broader, more strategic and international perspective. The programme develops future-oriented leaders who can navigate both the business side and the service side of the health and social-services field.”
A thesis project that did not just stay on paper
What is truly inspiring in Prakas Dhakal’s story is that his thesis project actually became reality. He designed a school concept that brought elements of Finnish education into the Nepali context. With strong local collaboration, community support and persistent dedication, the project has evolved into a real school in Nepal, Sindhuli Academy, now serving about 500 children.
“Growing up in Nepal, I had always hoped to contribute something meaningful to my home community. During my Health Business Management studies, I realised that my thesis could be more than an academic exercise, it could be the foundation for change.”
“My role in the project began with initiating the idea, conducting the research, planning the model and building the partnerships. I was also involved in shaping the pedagogical approach.”
From student to teacher
Today Prakas Dhakal is part of Metropolia’s teaching staff. He teaches in the Degree Programme in Social Services (DPSS) and courses such as Child Welfare, Human Growth and Development, Empowerment as well as Ethics and Social Work Challenges. He also continues his work with Sindhuli Academy in a guiding and advisory role, supporting the school’s strategic development and pedagogical decisions as well as helping to run the school’s scholarship programme.
“It is demanding work, but the sense of purpose and satisfaction it brings deep is extraordinary.”
More information
Health Business Management, Master's Degree
Social Services Bachelor's path studies | Metropolia UAS