Experts call for larger role of science for development in Nepal
Experts have underscored the need for a stronger development in Nepal, advocating for science that is accessible, inclusive and actionable for public benefit.
They said so during a Round Table Discussion on ‘Harnessing Science for Connectivity, Climate Action, & Clean Energy’ organized by The Asian Institute of Diplomacy and International Affairs (AIDIA) in Kathmandu today, reads a statement issued by The Asian Institute of Diplomacy and International Affairs (AIDIA).
The event, held to celebrate World Science Day 2025, brought together leading experts, policymakers, and academics to address the theme, "Trust, transformation, and tomorrow: The science we need for 2050."
The event opened with the insightful remarks from Ganesh Shah, Former Minister for Environment, Science and Technology, Government of Nepal.
Shah emphasized the critical need to integrate scientific advancements into national policy to tackle the compounding challenges of climate change and sustainable development, setting a powerful tone for the event.
The discussion called on a distinguished panel of experts who delivered insightful and compelling presentations on three core thematic areas, according to the statement.
The first presentation on Connectivity by Laxman Bahadur Basnet, Distinguished Fellow at AIDIA, explored the role of science and technology in enhancing national and regional connectivity, from digital infrastructure to transportation networks.
Likewise, the second presentation on ‘Climate Loss and Damage’ by Ujjwal Upadhyay, a noted Climate Adaptation and DRR Expert, provided a critical analysis of the escalating impacts of climate change in Nepal and outlined the scientific and policy frameworks required to address loss and damage.
The third presentation on Energy Transition by Kuber Chalise, Research Director at AIDIA, delivered a presentation on the Nepal's clean energy transition, highlighting both opportunities and challenges in moving away from fossil fuels, the surge in electric vehicle and increasing production of hydropower.
Following the presentations, a dynamic open discussion was held, allowing participants to engage directly with the experts. The conversation underscored the necessity of a multi-stakeholder approach, bridging the gap between scientific research, policy-making, and public implementation, the statement further reads.
Giving his remarks, Anup Upadhyay, chair of the new political party Nepal Ujjwalo Party and chair of Nepalese Association of PPP Professionals and Practitioners (NAPPP) called highlighted the government’s policy and gaps that have not allowed to transform the policy into practice.
The event concluded with a shared commitment to fostering continued dialogue on these critical issues. As a gesture of gratitude for their invaluable contributions, Sajina Rai, Program Director of AIDIA, presented a token of love to the esteemed presenters.
Weather to remain mainly fair today
The weather will remain partly cloudy in the hilly areas of Koshi, Bagmati and Gandaki Provinces and mainly fair in the rest of the country.
According to the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology, there is no significant effect of the weather system across the country at the moment.
Government urges local levels to provide details of damage
The government has urged all rural municipalities and municipalities in the country to report about damage caused by the Gen-Z protests and demonstrations that took place across the country on September 8 and 9.
The Ministry of Federal Affairs and General Administration (MoFAGA) has communicated to all 753 local levels across the country, requesting them to provide details of damage.
Information has also been sought about the details of reconstruction works being carried out by the respective municipality.
The government had formed a five-member committee on September 21 to assess the damage to public property, physical structures and private establishments caused during the agitation and prepare a reconstruction plan.
For uniformity as well as to facilitate data collection, the committee has been asked to prepare an online portal and the concerned local levels have been asked to provide details using it.
Arjun Sapkota’s new song “Jhaliko” released
Singer and composer Arjun Sapkota’s new song “Jhaliko” has been released through his official YouTube channel. The song features vocals by Sapkota along with popular singers Melina Rai and Samikshya Adhikari.
The lyrics were penned by Santosh Sapkota, with contributions from Krishna Reule and Pradeep Rodan in the hook line and ghazal sections, respectively.
The music video, based on a story by Dipa Simkhada and Bishal Ghimire, portrays the pain and struggles of Nepalis who go abroad for employment. It highlights the harsh reality of migrant workers leaving home with dreams of a better future, only to return in coffins.
Directed by Bishal Ghimire, the video stars Arjun Kusum Bhandari and Shibu Pandey in lead roles. It also features performances by Rajendra Aryal, Santosh Sapkota, Sabin Dotel, and Shreedhar Adhikari. The cinematography is by Buddha Thapa, and the video has been edited by Dinson Shah.
