Experts have strongly advocated for a larger, more accessible, and actionable role for science in accelerating development in Nepal, particularly in the areas of connectivity, climate action, and clean energy.
The call was made on Thursday during a Round Table Discussion on 'Harnessing Science for Connectivity, Climate Action, and Clean Energy,' organized by The Asian Institute of Diplomacy and International Affairs (AIDIA) in Kathmandu to celebrate World Science Day 2025. The event's theme was "Trust, transformation, and tomorrow: The science we need for 2050."
The discussion was inaugurated with insightful opening 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 round table featured compelling presentations from a panel of distinguished experts on three core themes. 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.
Giving his remarks, Anup Upadhyay, chair of the new political party Ujyalo Nepal and chair of the Nepalese Association of PPP Professionals and Practitioners 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 token of love to the esteemed presenters.
About AIDIA
The Asian Institute of Diplomacy and International Affairs (AIDIA) is an independent, non-partisan, and non-profit think tank based in Kathmandu, Nepal. AIDIA serves as a leading platform for research, policy analysis, and dialogue on foreign policy, geopolitics, economy, trade, energy, and security.
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