Abstract

Conclusion. The study concludes systemic biases in research support, with a clear preference for STEM fields, senior academics, and centrally located institutions. Junior faculty, peripheral regions, and female researchers face structural disadvantages in accessing resources and institutional backing. These disparities contribute to an unequal research environment, limiting the diversity and inclusivity of academic innovation. The research infers critical inequities in the support system for university research in Nepal

Keywords: Research support, funding disparities, academic inequality, STEM preference, policy reform

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