Monash Arts alumna Dr Neeti Aryal Khanal receives prestigious Fulbright scholarship for research supporting women with disabilities in Nepal

Dr Neeti Aryal Khanal, an alumna from Monash University’s Faculty of Arts, has been awarded a prestigious Fulbright scholarship for postdoctoral studies in the United States on violence against women.

Originally from Nepal, Dr Khanal chose Monash University to complete a Masters in Women’s Studies and a PhD in Sociology, where she studied the complex intersections of marginalisation and poor reproductive health of marginalised women. She was grateful to be able to undertake these studies with the support of an Australian Awards Scholarship funded by the Australian Government. Dr Khanal has been involved in research projects on the issue of violence against women for more than a decade.

Dr Khanal said she was grateful to Monash University for equipping her with knowledge and experience to obtain such a prestigious scholarship.

“Monash University is at the forefront of research and education aimed at preventing violence against women and I feel privileged to have benefited from this knowledge sharing, providing me with valuable skills and experience that have been instrumental in securing this Fulbright scholarship,” Dr Khanal said.

“Most importantly, I want to thank the whole Monash academic community for the enriching, supportive academic environment which helped me thrive and grow in my academic career. This opportunity will allow me to further my research and contribute to addressing critical issues facing women globally.”

Dean of the Faculty of Arts, Professor Katie Stevenson, congratulated Dr Khanal on her Fulbright scholarship and commended her commitment to research that tackles global issues affecting marginalised women.

“Dr Khanal’s research into tackling the complex challenges faced by the women of Nepal is exemplary. Her work has considerable impact and the Fulbright Scholarship will support her continued contribution and development of her work. We are proud to call her a Monash Arts alumna,” Professor Stevenson said.

The Fulbright Scholarship is a prestigious international exchange program established to foster mutual understanding between the United States and other countries. Sponsored by the US government, the program offers grants for research, study, and teaching opportunities in more than 140 countries. Recipients, known as Fulbright Scholars, are selected based on their academic and professional achievements, leadership potential, and commitment to cultural exchange.

As a Fulbright Visiting Scholar for the academic year 2024-25, Dr Khanal will be hosted by Oberlin College and Conservatory. Under the guidance of her mentor Professor Erika Hoffman Dilloway, her research will focus on women with disabilities in Nepal, drawing from her extensive engagement as a disability researcher in Nepal.