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Dr Pooneh Bagheri Zadeh is the Course Director for Computer Science at Leeds Beckett University (LBU). She is dedicated to advancing research in new technologies and methodologies to improve the research environment at the university. Dr Zadeh spent nearly three years as a senior research fellow specializing in 3D technology like vision, construction and TV. She recently led a group of students to Nepal for a student exchange program in computer science held at the British College (TBC). Babita Shrestha from ApEx interviewed her about the exchange program and  students’ projects which they were working on.

Why is a student exchange program in computer science and engineering important?

Nepal and the UK are on opposite sides of the globe, each with its own unique culture and educational system. Yet, despite these differences, TBC and LBU offer the same courses, materials and assessment strategies across all three years of study. It’s like creating a bridge between two distant worlds through education. Ultimately, it’s not just about swapping cultures and knowledge; it’s about fostering a sense of belongingness and enriching the educational landscape for everyone involved.

What’s the future like for student exchange programs in computer science considering their impact and accessibility?

After our first visit last year, we’re back for our second round. We faced some challenges before, but this time, things have been much smoother. My team and I have made some adjustments to the program. We started building teams and fostering connections among students earlier, encouraging discussions about potential projects. This year, our focus has been on addressing real issues in Nepal through technological innovation, benefiting both countries. It’s not just about collaboration but making a positive impact as well. And to ensure everything aligns well, we strategically chose March to coincide with our Easter break and Nepal’s favorable weather conditions.

During the exchange program, what specific areas of projects students engaged themselves in to address real-world challenges?

At first, we divided our students into four groups, each comprising two students from TBC and two from LBU. Before our trip to Nepal, each group decided on a topic aimed at addressing issues in Nepal. Last time, I brought Raspberry Pi from the UK, but this time, we use in-house technology—Arduino, which has various sensors . While the UK students were familiar with Raspberry Pi, they learned about Arduino alongside the Nepalese students. And it was surprising to me how the students quickly grasped Arduino concepts during workshops on the first day.

In terms of projects, Group A focused on developing a ‘Flood and Landslide Detection System’ using ultrasonic sensors connected to Arduino. This system can measure water levels and soil moisture, providing crucial information to authorities to prevent floods, which happens to be one of the major issues in Nepal. Group B developed a ‘Real-Time Traffic Management System’ using infrared sensors to count vehicles in lanes. Based on traffic flow, the system adjusts traffic lights to regulate traffic, making use of smart technology to enhance traffic control.

Group C made a ‘Smart Gardening System’ with sensors that check soil temperature, light, moisture and pH. If anything’s off, it waters the soil, great for indoor gardening. Group D created a ‘Quality Water Control System’ that checks if water is safe to drink using pH sensors. The results show on a portable device, handy for checking water safety anywhere.

What is the significance of computer science education in today’s digital age?

I believe computer science education is like learning how to use a powerful tool that helps us in our daily lives. It’s not just a luxury anymore; it’s become a necessity in society. With everything becoming digital, knowing about computers is essential. And because technology is always changing, learning computer science keeps us up-to-date and ready for whatever comes our way. It prepares us for the future.

How does it empower individuals and societies in terms of innovation and progress?

It really boosts people and communities by giving them the ability to keep up with constant changing technology. This means always being ready to learn and adapt to new things. With these skills, individuals can stay at the forefront of innovation and creativity. Ultimately, this also prepares them to be more competitive in the job market and contributes to overall progress and innovation in society.

Given your extensive experience as an External Examiner Researcher and computer science, can you share how new tech advancement helps protect digital stuff and catch cybercriminals?

Because of my teaching experiences at various universities, I’ve explored different research areas, particularly in computer science, computer vision, digital forensics and cybersecurity. Currently, I have a PhD student who’s researching drone detection and classification using deep learning and machine learning methods. In the UK, criminals sometimes use drones to smuggle drugs into prisons and other restricted areas. To address this, the project utilizes visual systems and cameras, along with deep learning techniques, to detect these drones. Additionally, I’m working on a project in digital cybersecurity. We’re developing technology like body cameras, smart glasses and smart doorbells, which help prevent crime by capturing evidence at crime scenes.

What are your big plans for doing more projects and working with others in computer science and engineering?

We have a great team of people who have done lots of research in areas like IoT (internet of things) and cloud computing. While I’m here in Nepal, I’ve asked the head of the school and the computer science course leader to help us find more ways to work together. We want to make sure we’ve got solid plans in place for when I get back to the UK. I’m hoping we’ll see more people getting involved in research, both here and back home. And with our exchange program, we’re aiming to tackle projects that really make a difference in our communities.

Pankaj Saran is a former diplomat with 40 years of experience in foreign, strategic and national security affairs. He has served in key positions within the Government of India in the Prime Minister’s Office, the National Security Council Secretariat, and Ministry of External Affairs and in several Indian missions abroad. 

He has served as India’s Ambassador to Russia and India’s High Commissioner to Bangladesh, and as head of the Northern Division in the Ministry of External Affairs dealing with Nepal and Bhutan.  Saran is presently convenor of NatStrat, a Delhi-based independent Centre for Research on Strategic and Security Issues. He is also a member of the National Security Advisory Board and a Distinguished Fellow of the National Maritime Foundation. 

He is a regular commentator and writer on foreign affairs, security and strategic issues. Kamal Dev Bhattarai talked with him about the changing geopolitical situation in South Asia and its implications for Nepal. 

How do you see the changing geopolitical scenario in South Asia?

The rise of India is the most dominant feature of South Asia over the past few years. This is important because India is geographically the largest country in South Asia. It is the largest country in the world in terms of population. So what happens inside India is a matter of interest not just to the world but also to the smaller countries of South Asia. This is the first trend I have observed over the past few years. Second is there is a growing integration between the South Asian countries which is a very healthy trend. With the exception of Pakistan and Afghanistan, all other regions are today well-connected both at the government level and individual level, societal and economic levels. Third is we are finding greater interests in extra-regional powers. For example, China, the United States and to some extent Europe and Japan are showing more interest in the matters of South Asia. In a nutshell, South Asia has become more important in the global landscape than it was before.

How does India view the growing interests of extra-regional power in South Asia, mainly the US?

In South Asia, every country is a sovereign country, so they have the right to decide their respective foreign policy. Every country has the freedom to decide what kind of freedom they have with other countries. For India, it cannot comment on what kind of foreign policy any country can pursue. What India on its part is trying to do is to create an atmosphere in the region which helps the countries to develop and achieve their aspirations whether their developmental aspirations or economic aspirations or political aspirations. Its ‘neighborhood first policy’ has various dimensions such as increasing connectivity, building institutional mechanisms which will last and bind the countries which is an ongoing process. 

Sometimes, it happens at a fast pace, sometimes it happens at a slow pace, and sometimes there are obstacles. Like other regions, South Asia is affected by Covid-19 and Russia-Ukraine war. India is trying to help the smaller countries in this region. We believe that South Asia always remains an area which does not witness geopolitical competition. Because the priorities of the region are clearly oriented to economic and development issues. From an Indian perspective, it is better not to involve this region in the geopolitical competition and contestation in the world. We have already suffered during the cold war and it was of no benefit to this region. We do not want to go back to those days. Countries of the Global South have different priorities. 

Having relationships and cooperation with other countries with global and major power is legitimate. But we should not allow global major powers to exploit the vulnerabilities of small countries or Global South to create a difficult situation for them. The cooperation is natural but it should not translate into creating problems or forcing or using smaller countries by using their vulnerabilities to create problems for other countries either inside the reason and in the world. We have to find a new system or method in conducting international politics which does not increase tensions but it contributes to a greater atmosphere of peace and stability. Competition is fine. 

The United States is competing with China which is declared policy of both countries, it is not a secret. The question is whether this competition translates into conflict. This is a question that we have to ask ourselves. We do not like to be stuck in such a situation.

India is projecting itself as a leader of the Global South. How can the countries of this region benefit from it?  

From the G20 Summit, what India realized is that the global narrative was completely dominated by Europe and by what happened in Ukraine. The result was the problem of day-to-day management of economic development and not finding any reflection in the mass media. Among the global elites, India was able to sense the mood of the South and it held two summits: one before the G20 Summit and another after that to provide them a platform to share each other’s problems and concerns. And it was a great success. 

When it comes to Nepal, what India is focusing on is the practical implementation of policies toward Nepal. There are many aspects of activities between Nepal and India whether it is trade, economic cooperation or cultural or any aspects, and for me these cooperation are very important. India is providing help to Nepal in those areas where Nepal needs such help and it is understanding Nepal’s concerns and aspirations.

And for me these are core issues of bilateral relationship. Maintaining a close communication with Nepal at all levels is critical. If India’s growth can help Nepal to achieve its own national ambitions that will be a good situation. That is the constant efforts that you carry Nepal along to help and enable Nepal to take benefit from India’s growth. It is a reality that India is the fastest growing economy in the world and today its growth rate is higher than China. When India itself is changing so fast that gives opportunity to its immediate neighbors. There is an open border between two countries, there is free movement of the people so there are huge opportunities for Nepal.

But it seems that it is not happening, what are the bottlenecks?

I think it is happening. What we should think and try is to move beyond government. Governments have the role to play and they are playing their role in all that is going on. But there is much more in the relationship than the government.  Both societies have a deep stake in each other’s success and welfare. Every section of the society has a role to play and we should not leave this relationship only to the government. It is too important and too complicated to say that only the government can handle all the problems. 

The governments can provide a pathway, it can provide a broad ecosystem, it can provide atmosphere, and framework but other sections of society should play a vital role. Nepal is in need of employment and more investment which is a primary goal of the Nepal government. We have to see in what way India can help Nepal. One is obviously financial assistance, line of credits and development cooperation but there is more than that. I can see the huge potential of tourism. The Indian middle-class is growing fast and they are looking for a destination. Nepal should see India as a strategic depth. The good news is that India is doing well and Nepal has an opportunity and you should exploit it.

How does India view China’s growing concerns in Nepal?

What Nepal does with China and how it conducts its relationship is a matter for the Nepalese government to decide on which India cannot say anything. But, what I also say is that no relationship whether it is between Nepal and China or between India and any other countries should be constructed or developed in a way that harms the interests of someone else’ interests. This is a basic principle of international relationship. 

All countries are equal, equally sovereign and they have the right to conduct relationships but those relationships should not be at the expense of someone else's interests or no relationship should adversely affect the security interest of some other countries. Geography is a reality. Geography dictates the certain natural relationship and we should respect what nature has given to us—how geography has bound Nepal and India together. 

There is a certain affinity between two countries which will remain for the long run and no one can change it. You cannot artificially change the reality of geography and culture. You do not want any territory or country that is used for any activities that hurts some other country’s national security interests. No one would like it neither Nepal nor India and even for China any actions to be taken by any countries which it feels hurts its national security interests. This is a very natural and logical reaction. The fact is that India’s relationship today with China is in a difficult position. We are hopeful that we can persuade the Chinese to look at India differently to address India’s core concerns. But having said that we also trade with China, we have investment, so it is a complicated relationship. Everyone in India looks at Nepal through Indian eyes.

Prof Dr Song Zhihui is the vice-dean at the School of International Studies of Sichuan University and the executive director of Institute of South Asian Studies, Sichuan University. Shristi Kafle spoke with him about various dimensions of Nepal-China relations in the context of geopolitics of South Asia. 

As you head the South Asian Center at Sichuan University, how do you see China’s interactions with South Asia? Where does Nepal stand?

Institute of South Asian Studies, Sichuan University (ISAS) was founded in 1964 under Chairman Mao Zedong and Premier Zhou Enlai’s instruction on enhancing the studies of foreign affairs. In 2001, ISAS was entitled as one of the key research bases for humanities and social sciences and one of key institutes for regional/state research in 2011. During the past 60 years, ISAS has been recognized as an effective and influential South Asian studies agency. ISAS enjoys the most complete collection of materials for South Asian studies in China and boasts its rich academic achievements. ISAS has been working closely with its counterparts in South Asian countries to not only promote academic research but also personnel exchanges. In recent years, especially after President Xi Jinping put forward the Belt and Road Initiative, we have attached much importance to work with South Asian countries to promote economic cooperation and people to people bonds. In this regard, Nepal stands at a very important position as it is the focus to connect China and South Asia. If you draw a circle around China and South Asia, you will find that Nepal stands at the very center.

What topics do you prioritize when it comes to South Asia and Nepal?

People to people bond is the top priority between China and other countries when it comes to cooperation under the framework of Belt and Road Initiative. There have been misunderstandings and rumors shortly after BRI was put forward. Even in South Asia, there were quite a few negative sayings about BRI. But especially after China started to invest in some countries in South Asia, it has actually brought benefits to the local people, though there was still stigmatization with debt trap. So, we attach much importance with mutual understanding, and better understanding with the people in every country. Of course, Nepal is our closest neighbor and we have a very long history of friendship and exchanges. But as the world is changing, and the western influence is deeply rooted there, we prioritize the better understanding between the peoples of China and Nepal, especially between younger generations of the two countries. That’s why we have hosted several training courses and exchange programs in Sichuan University with the aim to let them understand the real China.  

What are the latest activities and programs at the Center for Nepal Studies at Sichuan University.?

The Center for Nepal Studies at Sichuan University was established with the support of the Nepali Embassy in Beijing and the Consulate General of Nepal in Chengdu. The center not only engages in academic research on Nepal and China-Nepal relations, but it also makes efforts to promote personnel exchanges and even trade and investment, etc. Last year, we had a very hot season of bilateral relationship between the two countries, we not only organized field study trips to Nepal, but also received visitors from Nepal. We also organized a very important joint seminar and two training courses in Sichuan University. We established the first Nepalese Students of Sichuan Universality Alumni in Kathmandu. This year, we will continue to receive Nepali students with BRI Scholarships. We also want to organize more trips to Nepal to understand Nepal better, to see the beautiful scenes, to enjoy the rich culture and to taste the delicious food.  

How is the Center for Nepal Studies cooperating with the Nepali universities? What are its engagements?

We have been very effectively working with Tribhuvan University during the past years. We also have collaboration with other universities such as Kathmandu University, etc. We not only engage in joint academic research, but also in student exchanges. Besides, we have been actively cooperating with the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD).

When it comes to research and academic cooperation, which areas are mostly being prioritized?

We have been primarily working on joint research and conduction of disaster management and rebuilding during the past years, as Sichuan Province and Nepal share similar geographic situations and both suffered from serious earthquakes. Meanwhile, we also organized several training courses on management, governance and poverty alleviation with the young provincial leaders from Nepal. There is a huge scope to cooperate in different sectors.

How about the annual exchange programs of students and professors between the two countries?

The exchange programs between Sichuan University and Tribhuvan University were going very well before the Covid-19 pandemic. It was halted due to the pandemic. However, during the three years of pandemic, we still had  online seminars and lectures. Now that the pandemic is gone, we are restarting our exchange programs gradually, and we are hoping to expand the exchange programs with more universities in Nepal.

How can academic cooperation contribute to Sino-Nepal bilateral relations?

Academic cooperation is the most important way to promote the relationship between the universities and research institutes from the two countries which are playing crucial roles. They can not only provide good and constructive ideas to the various level governments, but also assist entrepreneurs and investors to boost their business, they also help peoples from both countries to understand each other. Academic cooperation is so important that it is not enough to express the contributions to the bilateral relations with words.

What could be the role of such cooperation for China’s Belt and Road Initiative?

The Belt and Road Initiative is the greatest idea to build the shared future for mankind. It has been widely accepted by the international community. It is not only an evident proof to China’s efforts in deepening reform and expanding opening up in the new era, but also a concrete action of China to strengthen international cooperation and improve global governance. The cooperation between China and Nepal has presented a satisfactory answer sheet and best example for the world since it was proposed. I am sure things will be moving ahead in a positive tone and will yield greater benefits to the country and people.

Italy’s Artigiano in Fiera is an annual trade fair dedicated to global craftsmanship. Since its inception in 1995, the event has been organized by Ge.Fi. Nepali exhibitors have been participating in the fair annually. Recently, Lorenzo Cigognini, International Sales Manager at Artigiano in Fiera, visited Nepal. He has held this position since 2018. Pratik Ghimire of ApEx caught up with him to discuss the fair and Nepali participation.

What are the objectives of Artigiano in Fiera?

The primary objective of Artigiano in Fiera is to promote and support artisanal craftsmen. We assist small companies from various parts of the world dedicated to producing handicrafts, helping them gain exposure and access to markets. The fair places producers at the forefront of our endeavors. The name ‘Artigiano in Fiera’ itself emphasizes the importance of producers at the fair. Our focus is on providing opportunities for micro and small enterprises to showcase their work, highlight their value, and introduce their activities to the Italian market while reaching out to the audience in Milan.

What has been your experience in consistently organizing such an event annually?

It is a tremendous honor for both me and our company to engage with numerous countries. Each encounter presents an opportunity to learn about new cultures, systems, and people. Last year, we welcomed participants from 86 countries, and we anticipate reaching 100 countries this time. What sets Artigiano Fair apart is not only the sheer number of participants but also their collective experience at the event. We take immense pride in our role as a market platform for small enterprises.

A large number of exhibitors participate in the fair from Nepal each year. What are your observations regarding Nepali participation in the fair?

Italian visitors and audiences hold a deep appreciation for the segments presented by Nepal at our exhibition. They eagerly seek to explore and experience the beauty and quality of Nepali products showcased within the Nepali pavilion. Nepali handicrafts are particularly well-known and admired among Italian visitors. The Nepali presence adds significant value to our exhibition, contributing to the enriching atmosphere that attendees enjoy.

Moreover, the benefits extend to Nepali producers as well. Nearly 90 percent of Nepali companies return to the fair, underscoring the tangible advantages they derive from participating. It brings me immense satisfaction to witness the mutual appreciation: Italian consumers warmly welcome Nepali products, while Nepali producers reap genuine benefits from their participation in the exhibition.

What suggestions do you have for Nepali exhibitors who are planning to participate in the fair to maximize their benefits?

To enhance their products, Nepali producers should prioritize innovation in design and color schemes each year. Seeking inspiration from other countries’ pavilions within the fair can spark new ideas. Emphasizing research on new patterns and concepts is crucial to continually captivate visitors' interest. Equally important is the presentation of products—ensuring they are displayed attractively and appealingly. Effective promotion goes beyond the products themselves; the demeanor and communication skills of the seller also play a vital role.

Furthermore, embracing modernity is key. As organizers, we provide a digital platform with 1.8m registered users, offering producers access to the Artigiano in Fiera fanbase. This platform serves as a valuable resource for promoting their items. Through digital channels, producers can inform visitors about their offerings at the fair and their location within the exhibition grounds, significantly enhancing promotion efforts.

Additionally, transitioning to cashless transactions is imperative. With around 60 percent of Milan customers opting for credit card payments, the trend toward cashless transactions is evident. Nepali exhibitors must adapt to this changing landscape to remain competitive in the future. Now is the time for them to embrace and transition from cash to cashless transactions to ensure continued success in their business endeavors.

In its first edition, Artigiano in Fiera featured five Nepali exhibitors. By 2023, this number had grown to 90. With annual increases in participation, what suggestions do you have for the Nepal government to promote Nepali handicrafts in the international market?

We are keen on engaging with local governments in Nepal to provide support to Nepali producers, particularly in production and promotion. Local governments play a crucial role in creating infrastructures that facilitate smooth international business transactions, including exporting goods and transferring funds abroad. It’s essential for them to view sending money abroad as an investment in Nepal’s economic growth. By investing capital, we can anticipate generating revenue. This investment-driven model is fundamental for establishing reliable international businesses, especially within Europe.

It’s important to recognize that hindrances in logistics and cash flow not only impede the growth of individual companies but also stifle the overall development of the country. Therefore, fostering an environment conducive to international trade is paramount for Nepal’s economic advancement. Collaboration between stakeholders, including businesses and government entities, is vital in overcoming these challenges and fostering sustainable growth in the Nepali economy.

Nepali exhibitors encounter various challenges, such as sending money to book stalls and managing banking transactions for their earnings. How can these processes be simplified to assist Nepali exhibitors?

Challenges always present opportunities, and those who can identify them amidst difficulties are the ones who succeed. As organizers, we offer comprehensive services to ensure smooth business operations. We are open to discussions with the government of Nepal to foster a conducive relationship with producers.

Ultimately, the initiative and support from the Nepali side are crucial in assisting producers. Success hinges on their proactive approach and assistance.

In addition to handicrafts, Nepal is renowned for its tourism and organic products such as tea and coffee. Have you considered promoting them in Italy?

Indeed, I have learned about the potential of Nepali tourism and organic products. Italians possess a natural curiosity about Nepali items, recognizing Nepal’s abundance across various product categories. It would be highly intriguing to showcase Nepali food and agricultural items at our event. Additionally, Nepal’s tourism offerings, including trekking and mountain culture, present significant opportunities, albeit these may not be fully known to Italians. Expanding awareness about these aspects could further enrich our exhibition and foster greater appreciation for Nepal’s diverse offerings.

The Market Promotion Center (MPC) has represented Nepal at Artigiano in Fiera for 22 years, and they have now transferred all their responsibilities directly to the organizers. What has been your experience with the MPC over these two decades?

The Market Promotion Center and its Managing Director, Sagar Thapa, are much more than commercial partners for us; they are like family. Over the past two decades, they have consistently delivered outstanding results, and the recent transition of responsibilities has been handled with exceptional professionalism and goodwill. They are now not associated with us. We deeply value this partnership and are grateful for their dedication and contributions. We wish for MPC’s good future.

Are you looking for any new agent in Nepal for the fair?

Currently, we are engaging directly from Italy with businesses and exhibitors, but we remain open to exploring additional opportunities.