International Journal of Atharva https://www.nepjol.info/index.php/ija <p>The International Journal of Atharva is published by the Atharva Business College, Bansbari, Kathmandu, Nepal. The journal publishes academic research articles received from scholars of various disciplines.</p> Atharva Business College en-US International Journal of Atharva 3021-9205 Emerging Market of Nepalese Mutual Fund in Nepal: A Systematic Review https://www.nepjol.info/index.php/ija/article/view/62818 <p>The aim of this research was to determine the current state of the Nepalese mutual fund developing market. Studies carried out between 2010 and 2023 show that the specific topic area has been investigated. The research's dataset comprised 21 articles published in Nepal during a 14-year span.&nbsp; In the review of Researchers found that time restrictions and insufficient information provide obstacles for investors. Risk division is provided by mutual funds, along with other advantages including cash flow, accessibility, efficiency, creativity, and prevention. The safety and liquidity of funds impact investors' opinions of mutual fund investments. Advantages of mutual funds include cost-effectiveness, accessibility, personalization, innovation, transparency, and prevention when it comes to risk segmentation.</p> Rajan Bilas Bajracharya P. S. Aithal Copyright (c) 2024 Rajan Bilas Bajracharya, P.S. Aithal https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0 2024-03-12 2024-03-12 2 1 1 10 10.3126/ija.v2i1.62818 Assessing the School Management Decision Practices: Insights from the Policy Provisions https://www.nepjol.info/index.php/ija/article/view/62820 <p>This study investigates the management decision-making practices of community school management in Nepal, focusing on the policy perspective. An analytical approach has been used to analyze the information. The authors conducted a comprehensive review of the school education policies that pertain to school management decision-making practices. The authors analyzed the policy requirements on community school management decisions and practices. According to the policy provisions, the school head teachers, school management committee (SMC) members, and teachers' representatives are actively engaged in management decision practices. This study reveals that the head teacher and school management committee hold the authority over important aspects of school management decision-making, such as teacher recruitment, school development planning, and teaching learning activities. The role of local government has crucial in the overall development of community schools in Nepal. Implementing effective school management practices can greatly enhance the development of the school and ensure the delivery of high-quality education. In this context, the authors emphasized the importance of harmonizing management practices to ensure effective decision-making and encourage active participation, ultimately leading to improved school administration.</p> Bisna Acharya Surya Sigdel Copyright (c) 2024 Bisna Acharya, Surya Sigdel https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0 2024-03-12 2024-03-12 2 1 11 18 10.3126/ija.v2i1.62820 Problems and Prospects of Urbanization in Kathmandu Valley https://www.nepjol.info/index.php/ija/article/view/62821 <p>The capital of Nepal, Kathmandu, is undergoing rapid urbanization with issues like overcrowding, infrastructure strain, and environmental challenges. Informal settlements highlight resource disparities. The study explores urbanization's impact on cultural identity and social dynamics. Effective governance is crucial for managing urbanization and promoting social inclusion, but Nepal faces challenges like slow law implementation and corruption. Governance is pivotal for development, addressing issues like corruption and law enforcement. Despite challenges, urbanization presents opportunities for new industries and social services. The study aims to identify prospects for sustainable urbanization in Kathmandu, emphasizing green infrastructure, sustainable transportation, and community-based initiatives. A sociological perspective aids in understanding social dynamics and potential opportunities arising from urban growth.</p> Ramesh Prasad Singh Januka Dhakal Copyright (c) 2024 Ramesh Prasad Singh, Januka Dhakal https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0 2024-03-12 2024-03-12 2 1 19 33 10.3126/ija.v2i1.62821 Satisfaction of Students Regarding Communication with Healthcare Providers at College Health Services https://www.nepjol.info/index.php/ija/article/view/62996 <p>This quantitative descriptive study focuses on how satisfied college students are with communication from medical professionals at Atharva Business College in Nepal. The study was conducted from April 2023 to June 2023. The study includes 89 students, mostly female, aged 18 to 29, who received medical assistance at the on-campus Student Health Centre. Participants completed a questionnaire survey to score their satisfaction with several aspects of provider communication. The results show a high overall acceptance rate, with specific areas such as the greeting process, respectful treatment, and interest in patients' suggestions garnering positive comments. Most participants reported that they had excellent communication about their health problems, were involved in decision-making, and understood medical information. The findings highlight the importance of excellent provider communication in improving patient outcomes and satisfaction in a campus healthcare setting.</p> Kushal Niraula Tej Bahadur Karki Rajeshwer Prasad Chaudhary Bhumi Raj Acharya Copyright (c) 2024 Kushal Niraula, Tej Bahadur Karki, Rajeshwer Prasad Chaudhary, Bhumi Raj Acharya https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0 2024-03-12 2024-03-12 2 1 34 51 10.3126/ija.v2i1.62996 Voices from the Hotel Industry: Employee Opinions on Motivation, Job Satisfaction, Performance and Job Stress https://www.nepjol.info/index.php/ija/article/view/63463 <p>The study assessed employee opinions of motivation, work satisfaction, performance, and job stress in the hotel business.&nbsp; Demographic data found a diverse workforce by gender, age, and education level, with the majority aged 18 to 27. Result display Challenging and meaningful work emerged as the most important motivation for employees, followed by financial remuneration and supportive managers. Organizations generally compensate their staff through open acknowledgement. The majority of respondents indicated job satisfaction, with money being the most relevant element, followed by social interactions and working circumstances. External elements that added value to the employment included physical work, promotion opportunities, relationships with superiors and coworkers, inventiveness, and organizational structure and culture. Internal factors influencing performance identified education level as the most important. The participants assessed their overall job performance as outstanding. Despite high job satisfaction, a significant share experienced workplace stress, largely from workload. Taking breaks was one of the coping mechanisms used, emphasizing the need of stress management in the hospitality business. The study provides insights for hotel management on how to improve employee well-being and organizational performance in a rapidly changing business.</p> Sujata Pantha Lekhnath Yadav Subash Adhikari Krishna Hamal Copyright (c) 2024 Sujata Pantha, Lekhnath Yadav, Subash Adhikari, Krishna Hamal https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0 2024-03-12 2024-03-12 2 1 52 64 10.3126/ija.v2i1.63463 Compassionate Care: Exploration of the Nurse-Patient Relationship and Behavioral Dynamics in Healthcare Settings https://www.nepjol.info/index.php/ija/article/view/63476 <p>The purpose of this study was to assess patients' opinions of nurse behavior and explore the relationship between demographic characteristics and nurse behavior. Four hypotheses have been proposed to investigate the influence of age, gender, marital status, and educational level on nurse behavior. The research methodology was a quantitative, descriptive study using a survey of TU Teaching hospital ward patients. The survey had 45 participants and a 90% acceptance rate. The findings revealed dissatisfaction among patients with the period spent by nurses, while others accepted a lack of affection and belief in the pleasantness of nurses' gestures. However, patients largely believed nurses' clinical evaluations thought their care needs were addressed, and perceived favorable outcomes from nursing treatments. The correlation study indicated no significant relationships between age, gender, marital status, educational level, and nursing behavior. In conclusion, this study provides insight into patient opinions of nurse behavior, highlighting opportunities for improvement.</p> Nisha Wagle Dasarath Neupane Netra Prasad Nyaupane Chiranjibi Timalsena Copyright (c) 2024 Nisha Wagle, Dasarath Neupane, Netra Prasad Nyaupane, Chiranjibi Timalsena https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0 2024-03-12 2024-03-12 2 1 65 77 10.3126/ija.v2i1.63476 Unravelling the Influential Factors in the Decision-Making Process of Bank Selection Preferences among Atharvians and Their Relatives https://www.nepjol.info/index.php/ija/article/view/63594 <p>This research investigates the complex process of bank selection among individuals and their relatives within the context of Atharva Business College. The choice of a bank is a significant decision influenced by various factors encompassing financial, social, and personal aspects. Understanding these influencing factors can enable banks to tailor their services effectively and enhance customer satisfaction. Through the use of a quantitative research approach, specifically a questionnaire survey, this study thoroughly explores the behaviours and motivations behind bank selection among those affiliated with Atharva Business College. The quantitative analysis of survey data reveals key determinants, emphasizing the relative importance of factors such as interest rates, fees, accessibility, digital banking services, and brand reputation. The findings contribute valuable insights into consumer behaviour within the banking sector, guiding banks in crafting targeted marketing strategies, improving service quality, and innovating digital solutions. Additionally, the study underscores the influence of familial connections on bank selection, highlighting the need for banks to consider the interconnected decisions of family members when developing customer engagement strategies. In conclusion, this study provides a comprehensive understanding of the bank selection process among individuals and their relatives associated with Atharva Business College.</p> Puja Khadka Sita Bista Sagar Panta Sudhir Kumar Rimal Copyright (c) 2024 Puja Khadka, Sita Bista, Sagar Panta, Sudhir Kumar Rimal https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0 2024-03-12 2024-03-12 2 1 78 87 10.3126/ija.v2i1.63594 Bank Selection Decision https://www.nepjol.info/index.php/ija/article/view/63618 <p>The customer's choice of bank is an important element of banking strategy in today's increasingly competitive environment. Bank management must identify and improve factors that can increase retention. For commercial banks to plan an appropriate marketing strategy, retain existing customers and attract new customers, they must identify the criteria by which a customer decides to choose a bank. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to investigate the importance of bank selection criteria and to present the most important customer influencing factor in customer bank selection in Kathmandu. Using the answers of 40 customers, quantitative approach is used in the analysis. When conducting the research, a 5-point Likert scale was used to determine the bank's selection criteria. The findings revealed that the main factors determining the choice of a bank by customers are: speed of services, extent of branch network, the location of branches, and influence for sources as major determinants of bank selection among others. On the other hand, price, innovation, financial performance, and electronic banking are the least factors that customers consider when choosing a bank.</p> Gopal Tamang Bhupal Krishna Thapa Sohan Chandra Mishra Copyright (c) 2024 Gopal Tamang, Bhupal Krishna Thapa, Sohan Chandra Mishra https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0 2024-03-12 2024-03-12 2 1 88 97 An In-depth Examination of Cultural Diversity and its Impact on Service Quality in the Hospitality Industry of Nepal https://www.nepjol.info/index.php/ija/article/view/63633 <p>The study investigated the effects of cultural diversity on organizational performance and consumer satisfaction in the hospitality sector, which was noted for its multicultural staff and customer base. A standardized questionnaire was given to a representative sample of workers in the hotel sector to measure demographic traits, attitudes toward cultural diversity, perceptions of inclusion, and the effects of diversity on business performance and customer happiness. Statistical analysis was conducted on the quantifiable data to identify trends, correlations, and the overall impact of cultural diversity on various aspects of hospitality management. The study's findings contributed to the existing knowledge on cultural diversity in the hospitality sector, providing insights into strategies and methods that enhance industry efficiency and customer satisfaction. The study emphasized the importance of cultivating a welcoming and inclusive company culture that values diversity, promotes cultural awareness, and harnesses the unique skills and perspectives of employees from diverse backgrounds.</p> Chhayan Kunwar Pankaj Kumar Tiwari Kalpana Khadka Copyright (c) 2024 Chhayan Kunwar, Pankaj Kumar Tiwari, Kalpana Khadka https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0 2024-03-12 2024-03-12 2 1 98 109 10.3126/ija.v2i1.63633 Internal CSR Programs in the Context of a Financial Institution Operating in Nepal https://www.nepjol.info/index.php/ija/article/view/63634 <p>This study investigates the internal corporate social responsibility (CSR) practices of employees in commercial banks and explores the relationship between demographic factors and trust. Adopting a quantitative research design, data were collected through a questionnaire distributed to 40 employees representing various levels and departments within the banks. Purposive sampling was utilized, and ethical considerations were strictly followed. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were employed to examine the data. Results reveal gender differences in perceptions of company policies, with females generally showing higher agreement on aspects like career development and work-life balance. Married individuals also tended to perceive higher levels of agreement with company policies compared to unmarried counterparts. Moreover, age and years of service exhibited weak negative correlations with various policy aspects, suggesting limited influence on employee perceptions. Overall, the findings emphasize the importance of tailored CSR practices to address diverse employee needs and preferences, irrespective of demographic factors. These insights can inform strategies to enhance employee engagement and organizational performance in commercial banks.</p> Pradip Neupane Gehanath Poudel Jhanindra Prasad Khatiwada Rajendra Prasad Dahal Copyright (c) 2024 Pradip Neupane, Gehanath Poudel, PhD, Jhanindra Prasad Khatiwada, Rajendra Prasad Dahal https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0 2024-03-12 2024-03-12 2 1 110 129 10.3126/ija.v2i1.63634 Exploring Academic Paradise: Faculty Job Satisfaction in the Business Program at Shanker Dev Campus https://www.nepjol.info/index.php/ija/article/view/63635 <p>The purpose of this research is to examine the level of satisfaction felt by business program faculty at Shanker Dev Campus (SDC). The research aims to evaluate several hypotheses about demographic parameters including gender, age, and work experience on faculty satisfaction levels. A total of 35 randomly selected faculty members were asked to fill out a standardized questionnaire. A low standard deviation of 0.55682 indicates consistency across respondents, and a mean satisfaction score of 3.9871 indicates that faculty members are typically satisfied with job. A Pearson correlation coefficient seems to indicate no statistical significance when examining the relationship between age, job satisfaction, and work experience. As far as gender disparities in work satisfaction depart, female respondents were somewhat more satisfied on average than male respondents. These findings provide valuable insights into the dynamics among SDC's business program faculty and can help shape initiatives that increase faculty satisfaction and program achievement.</p> Puspa Karki Sabu Tamang Purnika Khadka Ritika Khadka Sabin Budhathoki Suman Kamal Parajuli Copyright (c) 2024 Puspa Karki, Sabu Tamang, Purnika Khadka, Ritika Khadka, Sabin Budhathoki https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0 2024-03-12 2024-03-12 2 1 130 138 10.3126/ija.v2i1.63635 Student Dropout Trends in Higher Education of Nepal: A Case Study of Baneshwor Multiple Campus https://www.nepjol.info/index.php/ija/article/view/63636 <p>This study analyzes the pattern of student dropout rates of Baneshwor Multiple Campus (BMC) over the years 2020 to 2022. However, despite BMC’s extensive initiatives, some problems continue to prevail due to social and economic reasons. Dropout rate is influenced by foreign migration more prominently as an aspect of culture wherein people give priority to employment opportunities abroad than study. The data used in this research are obtained from the Educational Management Information System (EMIS), while a scientific method is followed throughout the analysis phase. It is found that different academic levels have dropout rates, which indicate the need for strong retention strategies. The topic discussed in the dialogue covers, among other aspects, the level of effectiveness of the strategy implemented by BMC to reduce college dropouts, as well as external influences on students' lives and the nation's economy arising from student movement.</p> Rameshwor Kafle Copyright (c) 2024 Rameshwor Kafle https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0 2024-03-12 2024-03-12 2 1 139 151 10.3126/ija.v2i1.63636 Understanding Employee Grievances https://www.nepjol.info/index.php/ija/article/view/63662 <p>The perceptions of employees towards grievance handling, the grievances present among employees, the grievance handling practices, and the main causes of employee grievances in the hotel industry of Nepal. The research employed a cross-sectional time horizon and descriptive research methodology, collecting data through questionnaires. Demographic information revealed that a majority of respondents were young adults below the age of 25. Employee grievances primarily revolved around unmanageable work pressure, lack of facilities, recognition, and teamwork, indicating areas for improvement in organizational practices. Improper management was identified as a significant factor leading to a bad reputation, reduced morale and performance, and higher turnover rates. Management practices that satisfy employees include protecting personal information, responding to inquiries and complaints, and training staff effectively. The study emphasizes the importance of effective grievance communication for good management. The findings suggest the necessity of transparent grievance handling procedures, investment in employee training and development, and promotion of a supportive work environment to address grievances effectively and enhance organizational outcomes in the hotel industry of Nepal.</p> Aayousha Phuyal Copyright (c) 2024 Aayousha Phuyal https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0 2024-03-12 2024-03-12 2 1 152 165 10.3126/ija.v2i1.63662