DGND Dr. Ishwari Prasad Dhakal

District Governor - ( 2027-2028 )

Rtn. Prof. Ishwari Prasad Dhakal, PhD is a visionary leader, accomplished academician, and dedicated Rotarian who has an extensive professional background and unwavering commitment to service. With a remarkable background that spans over 38 years in academia, veterinary science, public administration, and Rotary service, Prof. Dhakal combines visionary leadership with an unrelenting drive to create transformative impacts on communities and institutions.

Prof. Dhakal’s legacy as a leader began with his outstanding academic achievements. Born in Gorkha, Nepal, he pursued his SLC from Luitel High School, I.Sc. from ASCOL, a Bachelor’s degree from Patna, India, a Master’s degree from Haryana, India, and a Ph.D in Veterinary Medicine from Rakuno Gakuen University, Hokkaido, Japan. His academic rigor laid the foundation for his illustrious career in veterinary sciences, where he has made substantial contributions, including the publication of over 50 research articles and two textbooks. His scholarly achievements reflect his ability to address challenges with innovative, evidence-based solutions proving a hallmark of his leadership.

As Vice-Chancellor of Agriculture and Forestry University (AFU) from 2015 to 2019, Prof. Dhakal transformed Nepal’s higher education landscape. Under his leadership, AFU expanded significantly, establishing seven constituent colleges and developed partnerships with over 30 universities and research institutions worldwide. Managing over 200 faculty members, 400 staff, and 4,000 students, he demonstrated exceptional administrative skills, a strategic vision, and an ability to promote collaboration. His tenure at AFU was marked by sustainable growth, internationalization, and capacity-building, aligning seamlessly with Rotary’s values of service, fellowship, and leadership development.

Prof. Dhakal’s expertise extends beyond academia into the private sector, where he has served as Chairman of several organisations, including Nepal Polytechnic Institute, Bharatpur, Kalyan Breeding and Research Farm P. Ltd., Brown Bird Hatchery P. Ltd., and White Bird Hatchery P. Ltd. His ability to innovate, manage diverse teams, and deliver measurable outcomes has earned him recognition as a strong leader across industries. His tenure as Vice President of the Nepal Veterinary Council (2004–2008) and his role as a consultant in the poultry industry further demonstrates his depth of experience and contributions to Nepal’s economic and social development.

Prof. Dhakal’s relentless commitment to service shines brightly through his contributions to Rotary International. A Charter Member of the Rotary Club of Bharatpur since its inception in 2003, he served as Club President in 2005–2006, laying a strong foundation for the club’s growth and impact. Among his many contributions, his leadership in the Global Grant Project (GG 1641340) stands out. This initiative established a child daycare center in Narayangarh, Chitwan, providing education, care, and hope for underprivileged children aged 3–5. The project, which ran from 2016 to 2020, not only transformed the lives of children and their families but also highlighted Prof. Dhakal’s ability to design and execute impactful programs that embody Rotary’s mission of “Service Above Self.”

Prof. Dhakal’s Rotary achievements extend far beyond his club. At the District level, he has held numerous leadership positions in Rotary International District 3292, including Assistant Governor (2010–2011), Chair, working committee of Adult Literacy Programs (2015–2016), Co-Chair of District Training (2014–2015), Co-Chair of District Public Image (2017–2019), Additional District Secretary (2019-20), District Advisory Council Member (2022–2023), RI Presidential Citation Chair (2023-24) and District Chair for Sustainable Development Goals (2024–2025). He has played pivotal roles in key projects, including water supply initiatives in Dang (GG 2096862), health care programs in Chitwan (GG 1862796), and educational infrastructure development in Gorkha. His work in Rotary reflects his ability to mobilize resources, inspire fellow Rotarians, and deliver sustainable solutions to pressing community challenges.

A devoted advocate for The Rotary Foundation, Prof. Dhakal is a Major Donor Level 1 and a Paul Harris Society member (PHS) since 2017. His dedication to Rotary’s global mission has been further demonstrated through his participation in Rotary International Conventions, including those held in New Orleans, Atlanta, Melbourne, and Singapore. His active engagement with global Rotary networks has positioned him as a bridge between local initiatives and international opportunities, enabling Nepal’s Rotary movement to thrive on a global stage.

Prof. Dhakal’s visionary leadership has also extended to promoting collaboration between Rotary Clubs worldwide. He played a vital role in establishing Sister Club relations between the Rotary Club of Bharatpur and clubs such as Patan Durbar Square (Nepal) and Ping Chen Landseed Rotary Club (Taiwan). His efforts have strengthened Rotary’s global fellowship and created avenues for cross-border partnerships in service and development projects.

In recognition of his extensive contributions, Prof. Dhakal has received prestigious honour, including the "His Royal Highness Crown Prince Dipendra Science and Technology Youth Award" by RONAST and the "Nepal Vidyabhushan (Ka)" award conferred by the President of Nepal. These honours reflect his lifelong dedication to excellence, service, and community development.

Prof. Dhakal’s ability to inspire and lead has also been evident in his role as a Resource person for Rotary training programs such as COTS, RYLA, AGTS, DTTS, DTA, and Vibrant Workshops. His work has empowered Rotarians to embrace innovation, strengthen their clubs, and expand their impact. As a member of the Rotary Foundation Cadre of Technical Advisors for Community Economic Development (CED) and Environment (2024–2028), he continues to bring his expertise to Rotary’s global initiatives, ensuring that projects are sustainable, impactful, and aligned with Rotary’s goals.

A man of vision and compassion, Prof. Dhakal’s influence extends beyond Rotary and professional accomplishments. He is deeply rooted in community service and has personally supported initiatives such as scholarships for young women, classroom construction in rural schools, and public awareness campaigns on education. His personal values of generosity and inclusivity resonate in every project he undertakes, whether within Rotary or beyond.

In his personal life, Prof. Dhakal is happily married to Shanti Dhakal, and together they have two daughters, Sophia and Isha. His travels to 23 countries have enriched his global perspective, further fueling his commitment to international collaboration and understanding.