The commitment and dedication of educational institutes in Nepal have been exemplary during the lockdown. Most schools and colleges have started online live classes through several online platforms like Zoom, Google Meet, Google Class, etc.
Amidst the pandemic and the government imposed lockdown, LBEF Campus has made over 3100 online classes available for its students. These classes will not only help to widen the students’ skills but also keep them busy during the lockdown.
Here’s the official notice from LBEF Campus’ website:
Notice on Online Courses from LBEF Campus’ website
LBEF was founded in 1998 as a non-profit, non-government organization. It is the first IT college in Nepal and has made steady progress to become one of the leading colleges in the country. More than 7000 students have graduated from the institute and currently, over 1000 are pursuing their studies at LBEF Campus.
Let’s see what LBEF is planning to provide remote classes and resources to its students.
Interview with Prakash Kumar Kejriwal – Executive Director, LBEF Group of Institutions
Q. Are online classes being conducted at present?
A: Yes, we are conducting live online classes as well as providing online courses to students. Currently, we are conducting live online classes for MBA, BSc. IT, BBM, and MSc. IT.
Q. How are you offering complimentary Online Courses to students?
A: Besides academic courses, we used to offer 54 complimentary online courses to students for the past one year. Since the lockdown, we have done two things. Firstly, we started conducting live online classes. They are going as scheduled on a regular basis. Secondly, we offered access to more than 3600 online courses to our students.
These online courses are references for students in topics like Arts, Computer Science, Big Data, etc. So, there is a wide range of topics and courses from the World’s leading Universities. We have acquired licenses for these courses that we offer to students.
Q. How effective are the online classes going?
A: Honestly speaking, we found a very low attendance in morning classes (7:30 AM). Maybe it’s the lockdown effect that students started waking up late (laughs). But the participation of students is perfect in classes scheduled at 10-11 AM. Although I have to say that around 80% of students are attending the live classes.
Q. How are the future scopes of online live classes at the LBEF Campus when normal lives continue after the lockdown?
A: We are definitely going to continue the live classes. We are planning webinars and other ways to facilitate a better learning environment as well.
Two things that this pandemic taught everyone around the world are that we can ‘Work from Home’ and we can ‘Learn from Home’. Some aspects of these were unimaginable in the past but no doubt, people are exploring the possibilities of learning from home as well.
I believe live classes will become an integral part of every academic institution’s learning management system. It will be just like an infrastructure. Every academic institution needs to implement a learning management system that minimizes the need for the physical presence of students and lecturers.
In fact, we are on the verge of launching our own platform called “e-Jaach” by next week. This platform will allow us to conduct 100% proctored tests online. So, applications like these will become a part of academic lives and infrastructures in the future.
Q. Can you tell me more about this application?
A: We have already prepared the application and we have worked really hard on it. In fact, the development is in the final phase and I believe we will be soon announcing the launch of the application. We will be able to conduct 100% proctored tests through the portal.
This examination portal will facilitate online assessment and will be one of a kind. We have our own software team working on it collaborating with a team of Singapore. The main purpose of this application is to facilitate online examinations from home. It might as well be a solution for conduction examinations such as SEE and other board examinations that have been halted due to the lockdown. The capacity is huge as we will be able to conduct around 10,000 tests at a time.
Do you think online learning applications will shape the future?
Let us know in the comments if you have any suggestions regarding online classes in Nepal!
The ICT sector is a growing industry globally and it certainly can use all the wide range of ICT talents. There is a huge gap between digital skills needed in the sector and the job seekers with the required technical knowledge.
Today we are celebrating International Girls in ICT Day which aims to empower girls and women in the technical field globally. It is an initiation of the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) with the slogan “Expand Horizons, Change Attitude”. Supporting the education of women in ICT is also in line with the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
On April 23, 2020 (Thursday), TechPana is organizing a Facebook Live event to address the involvement and stories of ‘Girls in ICT’ in Nepal. It will talk about both the opportunities and challenges for women in the ICT sector and how to empower them. You can witness the event live on Facebook starting from 3:15 PM.
Similarly, there are many strong women in technology who are contributing to Nepal’s ICT sector. They are leading by example and empowering girls and women around the nation with their work.
Here’s what they have to say about girls and women in ICT.
Interview with Roja Kiran Basukala, Deputy Director at NTA
Q. When did you start your Journey in ICT?
A: I graduated in Computer Engineering from Pulchowk Campus in 2063 B.S. Then, I worked in an IT company and eventually went to Korea where I finished my Masters. After getting my Masters’s degree, I returned to Nepal. I have been working in the NTA for 10 years now.
Q. What are the challenges and opportunities for Girls and Women in ICT in Nepal?
A: To start off, I would say that the presence and involvement of women in ICT are low in every part of the world, not just Nepal. The initiation of ‘International Girls in ICT Day’ runs events, interaction programs, training, and workshops throughout the year to empower women and increase their presence in the ICT sector. Talking about opportunities, ICT is in a blending trend with all other sectors in Nepal. For example, we have topics like e-learning, telemedicine, and e-agriculture which are revolutionary for the ICT sector in Nepal. There are provisions of working from home which we are witnessing on a wide scale during the current lockdown.
People often say that without education, you can’t achieve anything. But times have come when we are realizing that without IT, we can’t sustain our career. There are growing opportunities for women and they need to come forward realizing the immediate needs of ICT.
Q. How are the Government and other organizations supporting the initiative of Girls in ICT?
A: As I mentioned earlier, it is a global issue. So, the ITU has initiated a mission to empower girls in ICT and Nepal is a member country of this initiative. The ITU has been requesting each of its member countries to support the movement. Similarly, we have been supporting the cause and celebrating Girls in ICT Day since 2013. As a part of this initiation, we have been organizing events like essay competition and quiz competition to draw the attention of women towards ICT. Also, we have conducted Presentation contests to encourage women to display their communication skills.
Every year we organize an event or workshop or training by requesting several stakeholders to take part in this initiative. I believe all of us belonging to different perspectives, morality, and sectors have to take part actively in this to bring significant changes.
Q. What is the situation of ICT for Girls outside Kathmandu Valley and what are we doing to empower them?
A: There are certainly some challenges for girls in remote areas of Nepal. The first thing is the ICT education and awareness. From my personal experience, we provided WordPress training to girls in Humla with an attendance of over 100 girls. We primarily focus on awareness campaigns where not just girls but people, in general, have no idea about ICT. In the areas with better infrastructures and availability of resources, we organize training and workshops. And, we also organize hackathons in cities like Butwal, Pokhara, and Kathmandu where there are trained individuals and better infrastructure. We aim to maximize productivity from the hackathons and convert ideas into startups.
Not just in Kathmandu valley but we organize several awareness programs and skill-based training workshops in remote areas of Nepal. Unfortunately due to the lockdown, we couldn’t execute our plans for this year’s Girls in ICT Day. Similarly, we are trying to set up virtual meetings and events for conducting training and workshop. Hopefully, we can come up with more strategies and implement them after the nationwide lockdown.
Interview with Dolma Sherpa, Coordinator at LBEF
Q. When did you start your Journey in ICT?
A: I started my journey from 2002 as I finished a 2 years course from NIIT (Shimla). After completion of the course, I joined the job in the same institution as an instructor in Computer Science. I migrated to Nepal in 2006 and started working as a primary teacher in schools. Eventually, I reached the position where I am today as the coordinator for BSc. IT and MBA at LBEF.
Q. What are the challenges and opportunities for Girls in ICT in the context of Nepal?
A: Undoubtedly there are many opportunities in Nepal. Maybe that’s why I am involved in the IT field. However, there are also several challenges that point towards the lack of awareness regarding ICT. Let’s just take the example of the recent trend in data breaches in Nepal. It has been said that the major reason behind the incidents was the lack of proper utilization of cybersecurity knowledge and methods. So, I incline towards the major root cause being the lack of awareness for major ICT issues in Nepal. And, this also includes the challenges faced by women who are trying to make their mark in the IT field. But I believe where there are challenges, there are also opportunities to prove yourself. So definitely, there are a lot of opportunities in Nepal for Girls in ICT.
Q. What do you think is the reason behind the low involvement of Girls in ICT in Nepal?
A: Well, it’s definitely not because they don’t take an interest in the field. And it’s most certainly not because there are not enough opportunities. I think what separates the opportunities for girls is the ancient practices of women involving in household activities. So, people have developed a perspective of women where they are more involved in society and other activities rather than professional activities. For example, when it comes to coding and programming, it can be a long-term task. So, bound by the responsibilities towards family and society, women can’t invest enough time in learning new things in the field. This phenomenon is quite difficult to breach and this might be what’s keeping them from pursuing a career in ICT, or any other field for that matter.
Q. What type of support do you see from the Government and private organizations the development of ICT in Nepal?
A: The government is supporting the initiation of Girls in ICT for sure. Even CAN (Computer Association of Nepal) organizes several events on empowering youths and girls in ICT. And, there is a lot of support from private organizations in the academic sector as well. These organizations provide guest lectures, organize seminars and workshops in different colleges of Nepal. So, no doubt there is the active involvement of both government and private organizations for the cause.
Q. What is the situation of ICT for women in remote areas and what are we doing to empower them?
A: Obviously in Kathmandu, there is a huge improvement in the ICT sector and opportunities for girls in ICT. But, it is not the case when it comes to remote areas of Nepal. The major reason behind this is the lack of awareness in people. However, I have come to know that private organizations are initiating awareness campaigns and workshops to bridge this gap. I wrote a thesis about e-learning where I came to learn that OLE Nepal provides resources and tools to the students in Government schools in remote areas of Nepal. So, there are some organizations doing their best to bring a change. And I came to the conclusion that with more involvement of government agencies and private organizations, we can create opportunities by raising awareness.
Interview with Eeda Rijal, CEO at Sochware
Q. When did you start your Journey in ICT?
A: I would say that I started at an early age since Grade 8-9. I was enthusiastic about electronics and graduated in Electronics and Communications Engineering. I pursued my career in the field and attended training, workshops, and also worked as an MSP (Microsoft Student Partner). The Sochware team also represented Nepal in Microsoft’s Imagine Cup 2018 which we won.
Q. What are the challenges and opportunities for Girls in ICT in the context of Nepal?
A: Well, the tech industry always has been a gender-dominated industry for a long time. However, it is gradually changing and opportunities for women are in an increasing trend. What I truly believe is that technology has no gender and we are allowed to pursue anything that interests us. So, if we pursue our passion and work hard in the field, we are definitely going to succeed and pave the path for more girls in ICT.
Talking about the challenges, I would say that there are instances when people don’t really trust girls in technology. I have witnessed such stereotypical thinking among the people. Even when talking to clients, they prefer talking to ‘technical people’ when I am a technical person myself. So, I have to verify that I am a girl in technology in most cases. Furthermore, when it comes to education, I find myself teaching a class of 30 students and see only about 5 girls in the class.
Q. What type of support do you see for Girls and Women in ICT in Nepal?
A: Despite the challenges, the community for girls in technology in Nepal is improving drastically. It is definitely going strong and supporting more women who want to come forward in this field. So, we organize several technical community events to empower women. I, myself, am in Women Techmakers Community as a core member. We run programs for empowering girls, especially students through Microsoft’s education platform. The community support is very strong and welcoming for the newcomers in the field and also for the girls who want to pursue a career in the ICT industry.
Likewise, there is huge support from the government with the event of Girls in ICT Day every year. In fact, I participated in an app development contest in one of the events in the past and won as the 2nd runner up. There are several such initiations from the government and private organizations as well. There certainly has been an improvement and we are witnessing a growth in the number of girls in the field compared to their participation in the past 4-5 years.
Q. What is the situation of ICT for women in remote areas and what are we doing to empower them?
A: We can see active participation from women in major cities like Kathmandu, Butwal, Pokhara, etc. However, the number is much lower in remote areas. In fact, I have an interesting story about an incident in Damak. I visited Damak a few months back to provide Computer related training. What I found was a growth in the number of girls in classes possibly due to the inclusion of Engineering-oriented courses in Grade 8-9 by the Nepal Government. So, more girl students were participating in technology which is unlike major cities in Nepal. I was facilitating to train around 50 students out of which, 20-25 were girls. Moreover, I found there computational skills and problem-solving skills remarkably high. However, these girls were affected by the traditional notion of girls not participating in technical fields.
To change this, we need to bring more women in the field as role models for aspiring girls in ICT. Not just us, their families also have a huge role to play. Their families have to show support and encourage them to participate not only in the medical field or public health but also in the technical field.
Interview with Ratna Tara Baidya, Senior Vice President at CAN Federation
Q. When did you start your Journey in ICT?
A: It has been a very long journey (laughs). I started my journey in 1985 after completing my Masters in English Literature. I applied for a one-year training along with 3 other girls. Luckily two of us passed examinations and joined a job in DSI (Data Systems International) itself. I worked as a computer programmer at DSI from 1985 to 1991. I started as a program developer when there was no basic provision of learning C programming. We had to program in an 8MB hard disk which seemed like huge storage in those days, can you imagine? After 1991, I started to involve more in training institutes and projects. In 1994, I joined Nepal Bangladesh Bank and worked there for 25 years as the IT Department chief.
Q. What are the challenges and opportunities for Girls in ICT in the context of Nepal?
A: I believe the challenges today are far less complicated with palm-to-palm technology. So, if somebody is interested to learn, they can easily get access to the resources and information. A growing challenge for girls in today’s technology is also cyber threats. There is a lack of information regarding the proper use of social media and online platforms. However, most girls are aware of the pros and cons of technology as compared to the situation in the past.
Talking about the opportunities, I think every sector is dependent on technology. So, there is a wide range of opportunities for girls who are passionate about the ICT sector for sure.
Q. How can we empower girls in ICT and increase their involvement in the sector?
A: Firstly, there is a huge misconception about girls being restricted to household activities and society. This traditional belief still prevails in society due to which girls are not getting the support and platform to grow. However, there is a significant change in this trend with more people and families getting awareness. We are witnessing more involvement of girls in Engineering and other technology sectors.
There is a committee in CAN called “Women in IT” which has been contributing to raise awareness and empower women to involve more in ICT. The committee has organized events, campaigns, and workshops in schools and colleges. Definitely, it’s challenging, but not difficult. Our message remains to encourage them to face the challenges with our support. Similarly, there are other communities that support girls in ICT and empower newcomers in the field. It will take some time but surely we can achieve the growth that we are expecting.
Finally, what I have to add is we are experiencing the use of technology the most during the lockdown. So, my request to all the girls and women is that take note of how important and necessary this field is and follow your passion. Don’t hesitate to accept challenges and adapt to the ever-changing technology.
Interview with Sarita Neupane, the Program Coordinator at Padmashree International College
Q. When did you start your Journey in ICT?
A: I did my Bachelor’s in Computer Science from ASCOL in 2004 and MSc. IT from NCIT. I entered the market in late 2009 and started working as a lecturer in Computer Science and IT at St. Xavier’s College. I have been an academician since the start of my career in ICT.
Q. What are the challenges and opportunities for Girls in ICT in the context of Nepal?
A: Compared to the past, students and parents have become more aware of the opportunities in technology. As a result, there are lesser challenges than before. However, I believe married women face more challenges to balance a career in technology or any field. It is difficult to dedicate full time to work when there is a responsibility towards family and children. But this hasn’t stopped most women to pursue their career in ICT. Being a girl in ICT myself, I have seen such women and I take this challenge as an opportunity. The challenges may come from the family members who may be unaware of the roles and responsibilities required in the career field.
Another challenge is the mindset of students. There is very low participation of girls in technical courses and the admission in the college where I work is not even 33%. In fact, I was a single girl in my class while studying both Bachelors and Masters. So, I had to fight my way in the market and get to the position I am currently at.
Q. What type of support do you see for the development of ICT in Nepal?
A: There is a lot of support from the private organizations for the betterment of girls in ICT. But I don’t think there are enough initiations from the government to empower girls and draw their attention towards the ICT sector in Nepal.
Q. What is the situation of ICT for women in remote areas and what are we doing to empower them?
A: I have been involved in the academics field since the start of my career. And yes, I understand the challenges in remote areas outside the valley. In fact, I get called more often for guest lectures as a role model for girl students who are completely new in the field. These girls need motivation and proper guidance to excel in the field and obviously, I wish to lead by example. And, I wish to see more and more girls in this field. Moreover, my aim stands to empower and bring more girls in technology so that they don’t have to go through what I did as a single girl student in my class. I believe that together, girls gain more confidence and have a better chance to excel if provided with awareness and resources.
Meet Mina Aryal, Founder at ICTFrame
Mina Aryal completed her MBS from Tribhuvan University in 2011. Since then, she had a keen interest in technology, especially in the blogging field. She attained WordPress and other ICT training and thus, wanted to contribute to the field. Looking at the situation of blogging challenges and lack of proper platforms in Nepal, she founded ICT Frame Magazine in 2014 (Regd. November 2016).
ICT Frame is the first woman-led online magazine in Nepal that provides ICT related news in Nepali and English languages.
Final Thought
With challenges, there are certainly a lot of opportunities as well. It might depend on person to person on how they see it. But, it is for sure that if communities, government, and private organizations work together, they can empower a lot of girls to involve more in the ICT sector.
If you get the chance to do it yourself, don’t hesitate or hold back. Girls in ICT is certainly a pressing topic and people need to talk about it more.
Have anything to add? Please let us know in the comments!
Today is Girls in ICT Day. The day is celebrated every fourth Thursday of April. Various organizations and agencies conduct multiple programs on this day. We, too, tried to know the situation of girls in the Nepalese ICT sector. So, we asked a few questions to some people involved in ICT.
Pratima Adhikari:
This name doesn’t need any introduction among Nepali tech audiences. If you’re a tech enthusiast and follow Nepali tech portals, we believe you know her. She’s a video editor and presenter at Gadgetbyte. She’s actively working in the tech sector since 2017. Here’s how she answered our questions.
Q. How’s the presence of girls in ICT in the context of Nepal?
A: It’s growing. Girls are much larger in number in the tech industry these days in Nepal and all over the world. Though we don’t see a lot of girls presenting in tech videos and such, there are a lot of girls working for the tech industry. Some are AI engineers; some are developers, etc. Overall I would say it’s growing at a good pace.
Q. What are the challenges for girls in the Tech sector?
A: These days, I don’t think there are a lot of challenges. However, there still exists a notion that girls are better off being in the management sector or doctors or nurses. Still, on today’s date, ICT has proven to be an equally fulfilling industry with the growth of Internet penetration. However, there are still some people who think tech is a guy’s job, but they will change with time.
On a personal level, though, my family and friends have been very supportive of me joining this industry even though I come from a management background.
But in general, its basically family norms and values add pressure.
Q. What can be done for the easy access of more girls to the tech sector?
A:
I always believe that if you don’t work for yourself, none else will. So, in the beginning, girls who want to join tech should take a stand for themselves.
Awareness can play a vital role. When a student is done with their SEE exams, colleges need to give proper direction to students rather than just providing emphasis on high-grade students to go for science studies. There needs to be an equal flow of information.
Society needs to be more open and supportive of girls choosing IT.
On a government level, maybe IT students (girls) could get some sort of benefits.
Q. What do you see the challenges of tech blogging in Nepal? (not specified to girls)
A: There are lots of difficulties of tech blogging in Nepal. Some of them are;
1. Lack of first-hand information sources. Our sources are international tech media.
2. I think, in Nepal, there aren’t a lot of core tech-centric audience as well. The number of such viewers is rising, though.
3. Tech blogging is not a mainstream profession. The few ones who are doing it, not all, are just doing that. Most of them are doing it as a hobby or part-time job. That happens because the tech companies mostly do not keep tech media on priority. Tech companies are just mass centric, so they prefer traditional media for information flow.
Q. What do you want to say on today’s day, ‘Girls in ICT Day’?
A: I just want to say (to girls) that things have changed. There is no need to be skeptical regarding how the tech industry will treat you because, from my experience, it is very welcoming and has a good future for all. Also, since tech keeps on getting better, opportunities keep getting better. Also, we should be the ones to bring change.
Sashya Paudel:
Sashya is a content writer at Gadgets in Nepal. We asked the same questions to her too. Here’s what she replied.
Q. How’s the presence of girls in ICT in the context of Nepal?
A: In the context of Nepal, there aren’t as many girls as guys, but the people and the environment are very supportive.
Q. What are the challenges for girls in the Tech sector?
A: There are a lot of challenges because you ultimately have to work twice as hard to prove yourself in this field due to the stereotypes, but as you do, the hard work pays off, and people do appreciate you for your talents and creativity.
Q. What can be done for the easy access of more girls to the tech sector?
A: Well, communication is a must because there are girls who need a job, and there are vacancies too, but they do not know about them. And girls should be given equal opportunities and paid equally as guys in the field.
Also, I would love to add that all they should be given is also a chance to prove themselves.
Q. What do you see the challenges of tech blogging in Nepal? (not specified to girls)
A: Tech bloggers do have to face a lot of challenges because I have seen a lot of talented people who are driven to this field, and they also have very admirable creativity, but we don’t get the kind of learning that we want.
We always want to have the opportunity of learning from the best, and we are focused continuously toward taking the initiative, but we hardly get to be the voice.
Q. What do you want to say on today’s day, ‘Girls in ICT Day’?
A: I am very honored for this opportunity, and I also would like to thank the men in this field who support girls in this field. Also, I would like to tell all the girls to go for it. We as girls have so many dreams, so many places we want to go, so many heights we want to achieve, but there are always going to be some kind of obstacles, but all we have to do is focus on our goals and follow our hearts and believe in our voices.
Sumi Prajapati:
Sumi Prajapati is the content manager at ICT Byte. Check out her replies to the same questions.
Q. How’s the presence of girls in ICT in the context of Nepal?
A: In the context of Nepal, if we look at the present, the involvement of girls has increased compared to before.
Different events, webinars, and support from various NGOs and INGOs have helped them for self-belief and confidence.
On the other hand, although they’re involved, very few numbers of girls are only active in frontline positions.
What are the challenges for girls in the Tech sector?
-For me, It’s not that challenging as my family has been supportive since childhood. They have always supported me with my interests and the path I have chosen.
Generally, I have seen for girls, its hard at the initial level to pave their path and prove themselves when they enter the professional world. Once you get involved with the right opportunity, people will start to appreciate your talent, and it’s easy.
Another main challenge can be the self believe upon themselves and the environment they get in the tech industry.
2. What can be done for the easy access of more girls to the tech sector?
Well, I would say opportunity is the one to make more involvement of girls. They should be given more opportunities to prove themselves. If not better, they are equal, so they should be given more chances.
I would like to add one more thing: Family and society play an important role in their involvement. So society must think of them as equally competitive and capable as everymen.
So more flow of information and awareness is a must in our Nepali society.
3. What do you see the challenges of tech blogging in Nepal? (not specified to girls)
There are lots of challenges. Mentioning some of them:
-We have very few numbers of tech-specific audience. Even if we get some, it’s a challenge for us to keep them engaged.
-The Tech industry and digitalization in Nepal are still growing. So, it’s challenging to maintain sustainability and uniqueness.
-Another can be a lack of a source of information. Generally, we had to take a reference from international media.
4. What do you want to say on today’s day, ‘Girls in ICT Day’?
Girls in ICT day is worth a celebration to appreciate all the inspiring female tech leaders. It feels good when a female gets equal appreciation and opportunities concerning boys. No offense, I would like to say Girls believe in yourself, we are equally competitive and better than we think. Lastly, I would like to thank all inspiring female leaders and welcome to the new ones.
The outbreak of COVID-19 forced schools and colleges to shut down around the globe. Due to the lockdown in Nepal, it has become difficult to expect a physical class anytime soon. During such difficult times, most colleges in Nepal have adopted online classes and are trying their best to reach out to each student. Colleges are concerned about their exams and their future.
Most colleges have already implemented online classes using modern technologies while some are still looking for possible utilization of resources. The ones who are running online classes are using online platforms such as Zoom, Google Meet, Hangouts, and others. In fact, there is a 100% participation of both Bachelors-level and Masters-level students in some online classes.
We believe that lockdowns or shutdowns should be no excuse for depriving students of their education.
Let’s have a look at how some of the colleges in Nepal are implementing online classes.
Interview with Raju Kattel – Principal, Kantipur City College
Q. Are online classes being conducted at KCC?
A: Yes, we are conducting online classes for MCA (Masters in Computer Application), PGDCA (Post Graduate Diploma in Computer Application), and MAMCJ (Masters of Arts in Mass Communication and Journalism). Bachelors courses have been completed but we are planning to run revision classes for them which will be exam-oriented.
Q. What platforms are the lecturers using?
A: Currently, we are using Zoom and Google Meet for video conferencing. In fact, we have a paid version of Zoom that supports two hosts.
Q. How effective are the online classes going? Are there any issues?
A: They are going quite effectively and all the students and lecturers are participating actively. Our online classes are quite interactive as well. Students are assigned assignments at the end of the online class and they can submit their assignments online. Although the students faced some issues in comfort since they were not used to online classes at first. But now, they are getting used to it and actually are preferring it over physical classes.
However, it is difficult to successfully conduct some classes that involve practical lessons. Not just practical but subjects that involve maths and numerical. So, we are trying to develop materials accordingly to facilitate such subjects as well. Other than that, students are getting the flavor of physical classes for theoretical subjects.
Q. Do you see a foreseeable future of online classes in KCC when normal lives continue after the lockdown?
A: There are some subjects that we have to assign 3 hours of classes in a week. I am planning to conduct online classes for 1 hour and physical classes for the remaining 2. Obviously, we have to discuss its possibility and see if we can implement it after the lockdown. But it is for sure that we are not going to drop online classes at any cost. That is why we have purchased Zoom’s host and we plan to use it even after the lockdown.
Also, there are strikes and other types of shutdowns in Nepal that can occur frequently. With online classes, we can cover the courses easily even during such events. Similarly, there is a question of the validity of online courses from the Government and Universities. Suppose if we are unable to conduct physical classes for the next 6 months, then we need to come up with scopes of online examinations as well. The government and the University need to provide an evaluation scheme for students and prepare a morality of board examinations.
Interview with Sandeep Shrestha – Principal, Samriddhi College
Q. How is Samriddhi College conducting Online Classes?
A: Currently we are using Zoom as a platform for video conferencing. However, due to existing security vulnerabilities on its system, we are considering Microsoft Teams and Google Meet as well. We had already been using Google Classroom for assigning tasks and questions to the students. Currently, we are running online classes for all our courses.
Q. Are online classes running effectively? Are they any challenges for students or lecturers?
A: The lecturers are actively conducting classes as per schedule. However, a few students are facing problems with network connection and coverage. These students are at their homes in the areas where it is difficult to find Wi-Fi or any network coverage. But, we are making sure that the students with no such options receive recorded video/audio files of our online classes.
Q. What are the scopes of online classes for Samriddhi College going forward?
A: I believe we have to blend the online classes with our regular classes in the future. We can even conduct guest lectures or sessions online which would be convenient for both guests and students. It might be impractical to conduct all regular classes through online platforms but we can create a module that will help us to identify the subjects or topics that we can teach online. If we can manage the evaluation, task management, assessment, etc. from platforms like Google Classroom, then we will have no problem with adopting online classes for most subjects. We are eyeing on a long-term prospect of online classes with facility management, learning management system and live classes.
Interview with Bhesh Raj Pokharel – Principal, Texas College
Q. Is Texas College conducting Online Classes?
A: Yes, we have been conducting online classes for 20 days now. Almost all of our courses are being taught online through digital platforms.
Q. What platforms are the teaching faculty and the students using for Online Classes?
A: We are currently using Microsoft Teams which is a communication and collaboration platform of Office 365 package.
Q. How actively are the classes running? Are there any challenges?
A: Well, there is certainly active participation from both lecturers and students. We are also conducting regular classes online with an attendance of above 90%. Moreover, the attendance rate in our revision classes is above 60%.
For some students who are far away in rural places with limited network coverage, we are having issues connecting with them live. Video sharing and file sharing is difficult to attain for around 5% of our students. However, there is no difficulty for students who are outside the Kathmandu valley and can use data packs and internet offers from NTC or Ncell on their mobile phones. For the students who are not being able to connect with us live, we are using asynchronous ways to send them video recordings and files.
Q. What are the scopes of online classes for Texas College going forward?
A: There is a huge scope for conduction of online classes and we will surely include a few in our course modules. When it comes to Texas, we are definitely not going to call our students back immediately after the lockdown is lifted. Everyone has to follow social distancing and physical distancing for some time period. Colleges are the places where there are most gatherings of a minimum of 200-300 students from different faculties. It is a matter of security and safety of students and teaching faculty, and we are not going to take any risks. So, we will continue to provide online classes for at least 1 month after the lockdown. And, we will prioritize online platforms until we can be sure that there are no risks to their health.
Many top Universities around the world have already been implementing online assessments, facility management and courses. Even, students are evaluated based on the assessments and exams are conducted online. I believe we have to focus on going forward with the online mode of education and develop plans to address the concepts of ‘Technology in the classroom’ and ‘Technology for learning’. We have to accept the changing trend in technology for education to move forward.
Interview with Nawaraj Paudel -Head, Central Department of Computer Science & IT, TU
Q. Is CDCSIT conducting Online Classes?
A: Yes, we have started online classes for MSc. CSIT Semester I on a regular basis.
Q. How effective are the classes running and what platforms are the teaching faculty and students using?
A: Our online classes are quite encouraging and interactive. Out of 30 students, 29 students participated today (April 21), so I must say the involvement is quite significant. I just have to say that there are issues in practical lessons, especially when students don’t have their laptops with them. I also join in with the class often to monitor the status so, I have to say that it is going quite effectively.
We are currently using a licensed version of Zoom for conducting our classes. However, it has come to our attention that the platform has some security flaws. Also, in my opinion, Zoom is good for holding meetings but it might not be up to the mark as an educational platform. That’s why we are researching for better and more effective applications and platforms. The primary aim is to share class videos, files, manage assessments and evaluations. So it would be better to use such a complete platform which is also cost-effective. We are hoping to receive words from the University regarding policies of online classes.
Q. Is there a future scope in CDCSIT for Online Classes?
A: I don’t think it would be very effective to go 100% online with our course modules. However, we have to discuss the possibility of blending online classes with regular classes. There is a matter of resources, assignments, e-Library, and internal examinations when it comes to the scope of online classes. Currently, we are just managing during the crisis but we can surely discuss and redesign our course module if the University makes its decision on a policy for the validity of online classes.
For this, we have to invest in technology infrastructure and resources to enhance productivity and communication. In fact, I believe we need to focus on an online library that has all the references regarding different topics for the students. If there comes a time when colleges have to remain for months and years, then, of course, Universities and the government have to come up with a redesigned course module. Assessments, classes, evaluation, and examinations, every facility needs to be online in such a case which is just a hypothetical situation. But after the lockdown, I believe we can go with a blended module of online and offline courses. We can assign theoretical subjects for online classes and practical lessons for regular. That is how we hope to manage our course module in the future.
Final Thought
With the time period of the nationwide lockdown in doubt, colleges are providing online classes to their students. We can’t just wait for the moment to pass and deprive students of education. It is a great initiative by the colleges and Universities.
However, most lecturers and college executives are planning to integrate online activities into their course modules. It could change the trend in the education sector in Nepal and help remote areas get all the facilities online. That is how we step forward towards Digital Nepal.
What Do CAN Members Say On The Roles Of CAN Federation During The COVID-19 Pandemic?
The COVID-19 pandemic has affected lives across the globe at a large-scale. Countries are in lockdown, and people are forced to stay in quarantine. During such time, when social distancing is essential, the services of the telco industry and online communications platforms are in demand. But what about the roles of the Computer Association of Nepal (CAN) Federation?
CAN is the umbrella organization for ICT in Nepal with a membership base ranging from ICT institutions, associations to individuals working in this sector. With people working from home with limited resources, technology has been a savior for remote work. Even the Service Providers are doing a commendable job to ease the daily lives of people during the lockdown in Nepal.
We interviewed a few CAN members to get an insight into the roles of the CAN Federation during the COVID-19 pandemic. Have a read!
Sanjay Thapa, Former Vice President at CAN Federation
Q. How is technology helping to cope with the COVID-19 crisis?
A: Technology has a massive role during the time of such a crisis. First of all, people are getting aware of information and instructions on how to fight the pandemic at an individual level. Banking sectors are also being able to provide their service to the general public. There are countless benefits that technology can offer at such a time.
Q. What are the roles of CAN during the COVID-19 crisis?
A: Not just CAN, but all the organizations in ICT or technology have to play an active role at the time of such a global crisis. Moreover, the strength of CAN is the resources, networks, and experts in the field who can collaborate with local government to address the work that has to be done. Many things CAN can do, not just at a district level but at a national level. Firstly, it can facilitate the sharing of the correct information from the government directly to the public during the lockdown. As an umbrella organization for ICT in Nepal, it can advise the government on the steps that need to be taken to fight the pandemic or at least minimize the risks.
Not just that, the experts associated with CAN have the knowledge to deal with the recent data breaches and cyber threats. CAN can equip the nation with security not just against cyberattacks but against misinformation and panic.
Q. What has CAN been doing or has done so far since the lockdown in Nepal?
A: CAN has been active in running social welfare campaigns at a local level. I am currently at Banke, working at a district level to help individuals in need of relief. We are doing all we can to address the issues of local level government and organizations. However, there is no recent news or activity at the central level or at least, not what I am aware of. I believe a criterion and a plan need to be set by CAN to use its resources to advise the government and assist in fighting the pandemic.
Q. In your view, how do the recent data breaches reflect the condition of cybersecurity in Nepal?
A: CAN has been advising the government regarding cybersecurity for a long time, whether it’s on a national-level or private sector. Unfortunately, we have to admit that we haven’t been able to reach the optimum level of security. At present, it is essential to focus on the mistakes that we are making when there are limited resources and higher risks of cyber threats. Although Nepal doesn’t fall on an ‘easy-zone’ when it comes to cybercrimes, it needs to implement plans and criteria to tackle the risks in compliance with technical standards.
Q. Does Nepal lack the resources to deal with these threats?
A: No, I don’t think Nepal lacks the resources, but what it requires are unison and cooperation. IT companies and other private sectors are working on their own. Similarly, the government is working at their level. So, there is a massive gap in synchronization among these sectors, which I feel is the major issue for the weakness in security.
We have experts who can respond to incidents and mitigate the threat. But to prevent it from happening in the first place, businesses need proper management. It’s just that companies try to invest as little as possible, and security measures are at the bottom of their priority.
Q. What lessons can be learned from the ongoing cyberattacks amid the pandemic?
A: Firstly, I strongly believe that private sectors and the government need to work collaboratively. Organizations need to use the resources they have to strengthen their security systems. Moreover, funding for new and upgraded technologies is a must. If other countries are using technology, why should Nepal fall behind? After all, it is a matter of potential risks to the heritage and property of the nation.
Bhim Dhoj Shrestha, Former General Secretary of CAN
Q. Can technology help people fight the pandemic?
A: Technology has a significant role in fighting the pandemic but not just on an individual level. The government has to implement specific policies and collaborate with ICT institutions and service providers.
Q. What roles does CAN have during the COVID-19 crisis?
A: A Federation like CAN has a considerable role as a leader and an advisor for the government. The collaboration between government and CAN will help to deal with the crisis. It is the best time to implement ICT at local and national levels. With the help of CAN’s resources and members, the government needs to implement ICT aggressively during the lockdown. It is the time when people are working remotely, and hence, the opportunity and potential of ICT become limitless.
Q. Do you think we have sufficient technical resources to make people’s lives more comfortable during the lockdown?
A: The fintech industry is doing its best, and service providers are equipped with precautions to continue their services to the public. However, I think the government should also focus on funding the ICT sector of our country. The more updated we are in technology, the more comfortable we can make the lives of people during the lockdown.
Q. Has CAN Federation notified its members of any immediate actions or plans it has set to assist the government since the lockdown?
A: Not that I am aware of.
Q. What are your views on the recent data breaches?
A: Another pandemic that Nepal is currently facing is cybercrime. I remember about 20 years ago when I advised policymakers to implement cybersecurity; they took my words lightly. They said, “We have just recently implemented online transactions; it is too early for focusing on security.” I simply told them we shouldn’t wait for thieves to walk on the road just because it has only been constructed. We still lack the proper implementation of security and cyber laws.
Q. How can organizations prevent such data breaches in the future?
A: The most important thing to understand is the concept of ‘global village.’ Everyone, not just the organizations, but individuals and the government should work in unison as if it is a global village. That is how we can draft strict policies and laws to ensure data protection. Also, the collaboration will help organizations implement better security systems.
Shaligram Parajuli, Individual Life Member
Q. As a life member, what do you think CAN should have done since the coronavirus outbreak?
A: CAN have come forward as a role model during the lockdown since it is the time to be more active, even when working from home. CAN is such a vibrant organization that has a wide variety of roles. Firstly, it could have called up its members to discuss the implementation of simple information dissemination or data analysis model. We can develop applications and run awareness campaigns.
It could have been the golden opportunity for CAN to partner with the government in assisting the Prime Minister’s समृद्धनेपाल, सुखीनेपाली aim. With the expertise of CAN’s members and resources, it could have developed a mobile application that could collect data from rural areas. If that’s not possible, at least a simple messaging format that could collect data regarding the status, temperature checks, and other information of individuals. This could’ve helped collect massive data overnight that could facilitate immediate response.
Q. Is CAN living up to its roles and responsibilities?
A: I think CAN is missing out on a golden opportunity to come forward as a leader. CAN’s resources could help show the government and individuals a path for the next steps in fighting the pandemic. However, I am not aware of any information dissemination or call-to-action for its members. Due to this, we are losing our precious time to act as an umbrella organization of all ICT activities in Nepal.
Q. How should we take the initiative to protect people against cyberattacks?
A: In my personal view, CAN has the resources to raise awareness among the public regarding cyber threats. If it publishes an article or a notice regarding the current risks, people will follow its instructions since it is a reliable source. Therefore, it should act as a bridge to fill the connectivity gap. For example, there is news circulating that Zoom videoconferencing has loopholes. And, video conferencing is the need of the hour with people adapting remote working lifestyle. So, what CAN could at least do is spread information regarding how to use Zoom securely or what alternatives we can use.
Similarly, it should inform the educational institutes and students on how to conduct an online class securely properly. There are other applications like contact tracing, data collection, and analysis that it could focus on. These initiatives should’ve been highlighted since the lockdown. Also, it should have to urge life members to contribute to these initiatives and trust me, and we will be more than happy to help.
Q. How influential is CAN in terms of its nationwide presence?
A: Our network is quite influential and is spread all over 77 districts of Nepal. There are CAN offices and associated organizations at local and district levels. CAN has a trusted network among its members and organizations that are ready to support its action with blind faith. The only thing that CAN need to do is take the initiative and spread information. However, I am not aware of any activities that have been made or are in order.
Q. Do you think CAN has a responsibility in preventing the current cyber threats in Nepal?
A: Cyberattacks has raised a question in the security systems of Nepali companies lately. The digital frameworks are being implemented, and time is the most significant factor. With time, we learn the necessity of specific policies and actions. Unfortunately, there are still policy gaps in online transactions, online procurement, and E-governance. However, with the lockdown and future convenience of people, there will be a forceful need to bridge the policy gap. In a way, it could pave the path to better cybersecurity in Nepal. ICT has a significant role to step forward by removing all the loopholes and strengthening the system. It is a one-way tunnel, and we have to move forward by brainstorming a solution.
Similarly, CAN be a role model in disseminating information regarding the symptoms of a cyberattack and how to avoid it. It can guide the people towards a safer and secure use of ICT to prevent further online threats.
Shreedeep Rayamajhi, General Member at CAN
Q. Where is CAN be lacking in its role as an ICT Federation?
A: In the current situation, the government is failing to implement an ICT strategy for proper communication and information flow. I understand that it is a global crisis, and in such times it becomes difficult to take certain actions. But, crises demand radical solutions. For a breakthrough revolutionary solution, technology can be used with better opportunities for optimum results and efficiency.
Press releases and announcements are made through journalists covering the report on-site. Why are we not using social media platforms as an efficient alternative? There are other ways to pass the information accurately, and the approach of ICT can help with that. Thus, anything to do with ICT CAN could help with guiding the government through it. However, we have not seen any such strategy yet.
Q. What do you think CAN could have done since the COVID-19 outbreak?
A: I think they should’ve prepared a crisis management team to guide the government on how they plan to help. In my view, it should’ve proposed a strategy long before the government responded to the pandemic. Also, it could’ve approached and addressed the government on handling the crisis technology-wise and, for example, setting up high-resolution cameras to monitor activities, developing strategies to control symptoms, and mitigating the risks.
I firmly believe technology is the best solution, but unfortunately, it is not being used up to its mark. I am not saying that nothing has been done, but if the technology was used in an integrated way, we could achieve efficient results. CAN can collaborate with the local government and organization to advise them throughout the crisis.
Q. What is your view on the recent data breaches in Nepal?
A: One thing that amuses me is that people are talking about data protection when there are no specific laws on data protection in Nepal. There is an absence of the Data Protection Act in Nepal, but people are complaining about it. However, there is a Privacy Act in compliance with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).
This Privacy policy covers the leak of personal information through data breaches. Data is more complicated than just personal information, so I am trying to focus on the fact that there is no such law governing the protection of data.
Q. Does CAN have a role in minimizing the vulnerability of systems or at least the risks due to cyberattacks?
A: As an ICT federation, CAN has experts working in the field of cybersecurity. Like I mentioned earlier, a response team can prepare a report and present it to the government. This could ultimately lead to planning and implementing strict security policies as we go. The government can’t and won’t listen to an individual like me, but it will listen to CAN. So from my point of view, a response team should be responsible for gathering data and preparing a report on the threats. It should collaborate with the government to mitigate the risks since the government can’t do it alone.
Q. How can IT industries and CAN support social distancing on a national level?
A: The IT companies may have a technology of, say, a mechanical arm so that doctors don’t have to go near the infected person. With current resources, they could focus and fund on making ventilators. Whatever support that government needs, CAN provide them.
When there is a crisis, there is an opportunity to prove, to gain knowledge, to exchange experience, and to build leadership. These things are essential during an emergency to understand it better and fight against it.
Q. How does a data breach affect the users whose data has been leaked?
A: Firstly, it is essential to understand what type of data the hackers have exposed. Companies, especially marketing agencies, can seal the chance to save these data as leads. The victims could end up getting 10-20 phone calls per day, and it becomes impossible to block all such requests. The leaked data becomes a marketing opportunity for some companies. Also, it becomes available as an asset that can be sold and bought.
Sujit Jha, General Member of CAN
Q. Can you highlight some roles of CAN during the COVID-19 pandemic?
A: CAN certainly has a huge role to play during the crisis. The utmost urgency is a collaboration with the government to facilitate proper remote activities. It can help conduct virtual classes in a better way and respond to cyberattacks efficiently. There are so many possibilities, but it lacks in its initiative.
Q. Have you received any information on CAN’s strategies for tackling the pandemic?
A: No, I haven’t received any such information. Maybe there are some strategies that I am unaware of, but I haven’t been asked to be a part of it. Also, I haven’t seen such activities on any platform. So, I would say no.
Q. How do we prevent another threat called Cyberattack?
A: CAN has the resources and expertise to put forward a strategy to prevent such threats. Unfortunately, there are no such implementations yet. As long as there is no strict implementation of existing cyber laws and policies, hackers keep gaining confidence. Another thing that we can do individually is, raise awareness. People don’t realize how prone they are to identity theft. All hackers need is your phone number, email address, and other personal information, which is readily available on the internet.
Final Thoughts
The standard-issue seems to be the lack of initiative and collaboration with individuals and government. There is a lot of potential in existing policies and technology, but we are not managing them properly. The only thing that is more saddening is the fact that we had to wait for the consequence of realizing its necessity.
Please let us know in the comments if you want to add something.
Most of you are aware of the latest data breach cases in Nepal. From 50K user’s data leaks from Foodmandu’s database and more than 175K Vianet user’s data leaks to hackers entering Mercantile’s database, we’ve faced frightening situations.
Whether the hacker is Mr. Mugger or he’s ‘Narapichas’, no matter if he’s SATAN too. All these hackers frighten the general public regarding their data safety. So, to provide you more information on Data Breach, we’re presenting you with the exclusive interview with Cyber Security Researches actively working to protect the digital systems in Nepal.
Interview with Alex Dhital, Cyber Security Researcher, and CTF Player:
Q. What do you mean by ‘Data Breach’?
A: Data breach means an incident where an attacker or group of attackers access and publicly disclose the data accessing the critical/unauthorized part of a server to extract the personal and private data of users or the company itself.
Q. What do you think about SATAN? Is he a newbie or an experienced hacker?
A: SATAN is a newbie hacker who is dumping data of various Nepalese sites finding SQL (Structured Query Language) vulnerability injecting queries to drop the tables, columns, and other multiple contents from an unauthorized server. This doesn’t mean he is a professional hacker since this breach looks like he has been using automated tools and scripts which can be found via GitHub and other sources on the internet. If he would have been a professional hacker, he would instead report the company regarding the issue so they can fix it, he would have used his skills in playing CTF, bug bounty (to earn money)and so on rather than causing havoc among the company and the public.
Q. Do you think if he’s a single person or there’s a group behind him?
A: In my opinion, it is probably a single person who is just doing these for attention.
Q. Based on his tweets, most probably he’s a Nepalese. But, do you think he’s doing all these from Nepal or is he residing in the other countries?
A: I believe he is doing all these from Nepal.
Q. In his so-called data of Prabhu Pay, there were duplicated data. Is he leaking data from the servers, or he’s just using the data available anywhere just to grab attention?
A: In Prabhu Money Transfer, he probably might have used the same technique SQL injection to drop the sensitive information from the server, whether from its primary domain fuzzing the potential vectors which were vulnerable to SQLi or one of its subdomains.
Q. In these recent days, the number of data breaches has raised in Nepal. Don’t Nepalese companies invest in security?
A: No, Nepalese company doesn’t invest even its 1% budget in security. As a result, even a newbie like SATAN is dumping their databases.
Q. Are Nepalese companies providing the bounty to bug finders?
A: No, not at all, they aren’t providing the bounty to the bug finders. Soon, Cynical Technology is launching Bugv, a bug bounty platform. I suggest all Nepalese companies partner with it. This will help whitehat hackers and bug hunters to report the vulnerabilities easily and make the system more secure.
Q. If a person finds his data in a breached dump of data, what should he do?
A: If a person finds his data in breached dumps ma if an individual finds his/her data, then they should change their password immediately and enable 2FA (Two Factor Authentication). Similarly, he should avoid providing his information to third party websites in the future.
Q. What do you say about the Cyber Bureau of Nepal? Is it well equipped?
A: I don’t think they are well equipped. Cybersecurity platforms, security training, security-related education, networking related education are not well managed in Nepal. So, they aren’t well equipped. They aren’t well trained in the field of cybersecurity.
Q. As a security researcher, what do you suggest to the companies in Nepal?
A: As a security researcher who also worked in the Onecover Nepal, I suggest Nepalese company invest at least 10% of their total revenue in security. If they do so, they don’t need to worry much about breaches and all. Prevention is better than cure.
Q. Finally, what would you suggest to the general public?
A: I would like to suggest the general public, if you hear the term ‘hacker’, don’t think they are bad guys. There are white hat hackers who are protecting multinational companies from being infiltrated. And don’t put your personal data/information in any untrusted third-party sources and keep an eye on individual privacy.
Interview with Nabin KC, OWASP Chapter Leader, Nepal:
Q. Please tell us something about the data breach.
A: First, we should understand what data means to an individual, anything that represents some kind of information about any individual can be considered data; it can be digital or written in a thick paper. The data may include anything from general information like name, email, phone number, etc. to credentials like password and credit card information. If anyone gets unauthorized access, we can call it a data breach.
Hackers are not only responsible for data breaches. The data can also be breached from the insider employee with the right access but bad intentions.
Q. What do you say about SATAN? Is he a newbie or an experienced hacker?
A: Rather than going towards the identity rather than we should focus on his deeds in my personal view. Many hackers previously have breached similar Nepalese websites and leaked data multiple times. This is worldwide trend and will happen in future too, but how company have prepared to respond to such breach and handle such incidents reflect company security capability. Well planned response will decrease the breach impact to organization as well to customer. Talking about him, the data he published doesn’t seem to be completely accurate, and few seem to be old, but also, if leakage has happened, we should accept and respond accordingly. He seems to be doing these to get everyone’s attention about his findings but in the wrong way.
The organizations themselves are not able to tell that the leaked data is their real data, what portion of the information is there, which reflects that they don’t have any principle of data collection(Need to know basis). In this scenario, we need to talk on the topic of what the organization is doing to protect it from more data breaches. We need to think actually how can we minimize the impact as it is already a breach.
Q. What are the possible ways person can utilize the Breach data to harm company and customer questions should be brainstorm?
A: General people are also downloading the data. They are searching for their crush details such as home GPS location name and number too, which I recently for my close circle too, this seems fascinating but right.
So, we need to focus on what response is going to be done after any breaches and how the organizations are responding to the incident. We need to focus on the loopholes before searching for the person who harmed it.
Q. What should the organizations do to be protected from data breaches?
A: Talking about the current laws of Nepal, the hacker is punished if the data is breached. If a company is missing basic security things, the organizations should be liable, shouldn’t it? If person puts his money as well some community collected fund in his house and leaves it unlocked and if money is stolen . the first thing community people would ask the money owner is why don’t they lock the house which a basic security, due to this is he lost his money as well community money too.
So, at first, there should be regulation similar to GDPR in foreign countries which govern the company if they had worked on basic security maintenance or it hadn’t. Punishing the hacker is still there but if the company wasn’t maintaining basic security mechanisms, it also should be liable too. If a person gets its data breached from any data holding company, he/she faces the loss and that can’t be compensated. But, other people like him should not face it again. The law should interrogate it.
Since the startups can’t invest much in their security, they can ask for suggestions in security communities without the cost like OWASP NEPAL, PENTESTER NEPAL, as I understand the pain during startup. We are always ready to help. If a person reports the bugs, they should take it seriously and fix it rather than going after who report it. The main thing is, all the organizations should maintain their basic
standards. They can follow the OWASP Application Security Framework during development and do pen-testing on a regular interval basis. They should have information security go side by side with development. As human are the weak points and breach with employee interaction are highest around world. Hence employees information security awareness program should be conducted on regular intervals. One of main thing any organizations should follow to prevent data breaches is monitoring, what we see can only be stopped hence “Monitoring is key for defense”.
Q. What do you say about the Cyber Bureau of Nepal’s action?
A: Cyber Bureau is doing its job well based on the resources they have. They may have thousands of pending cases, and if a situation appears, all the funds shouldn’t be used in the same case. Tracking someone in the digital world is tough. A person living in a foreign country can commit a crime using IP of some other country. The Bureau is doing its work.
They also have find the criminals who committed crime years ago. We can’t judge the efficiency of their work. Based on the current performance, the Bureau is more proactive than before. Different departments have been separated from cybercrime. They’re organizing various awareness programs too, but some things need to be also improved and increase there resources.
Q. Should the government increase its investment in the cybersecurity sector?
A: Yes, that is necessary. Since the government is saying to digitize every sector, they need to focus on security too. They need to increase investment in cybersecurity. If it doesn’t invest in protection, it’ll harm the public. For instance, the database of driving licenses is breached, and a person uses the breached data and creates a license. If he creates an accident and leaves his fake driving license, the next person will get punished. So, the government should allocate a certain percentage of the budget for cybersecurity. Currently, I heard the government has shared people’s license number and citizenship number in some Facebook page of the people who didn’t come to claim for a few months, should we consider it a data leakage too.
Q. If a person finds his data in a breached dump of data, what should he do?
A: Generally, a person can’t completely protect himself from a data breach as it is not all his/her control. What I suggest is using Sudo names (nicknames or some random name ). Almost all websites let users use Sudo names while signing up, excluding banking websites, as they won’t allow it.
Usually, people keep two phones nowadays or have two SIMs. If a person uses two phones, he should use the phone number followed at the primary telephone to receive OTPs. Various applications in smartphones can read the SMS. So, basic feature phones are better to receive OTPs or utilize there two sim, one for financial transactions and other for day to day using web apps like ride-sharing, online delivery, etc.
Similarly, if you use services that require GPS location for any delivery, ride-sharing, don’t provide that exact location of your house instead offer a place you can reach within 2 to 3 minutes. Using different email addresses for various services can reduce the causes after the data breach. We can use our Gmail address by adding as many dots in the middle of our Gmail address. For example, we can use ab.cd@gmail instead of [email protected] for signing up on one website and [email protected] for signing up on the next site. Doing this will reduce the consequences of breach. Current breach data will be utilized by scammers in the future similar to Viber lottery scam now. If scammers have your name, phone number, address, and GPS pinpoint will be easier to scam. This just one of the impact of data Breach there can be many. Hence, we need to be careful about that too.
Hello and Namaste everyone!
I am Pragya Gyawali, Campus Director for Hult Prize at Tribhuvan University. I am an MBA student at School of Management, Tribhuvan University (SOMTU).
What is the Hult Prize?
The Hult Prize was established by Bertil Hult and is an annual, year-long competition that crowdsources ideas from students after challenging them to solve a pressing social issue around topics such as food, security, water access, energy and educations aligned with the UN sustainable development goals. The Hult Prize, in collaboration with the UN, is the globe’s biggest engine for the launch of for-good, for-profit startups emerging from university, and every year welcomes more than 2000 colleges and universities from all around the globe. The Hult Prize is a partnership among Hult International Business School and the United Nations Foundation.
What impact does the Hult Prize have?
Named the “Nobel Prize for Students”, ranked amongst the world’s most innovative companies by Fast Co., and “Top 5 Ideas Changing the World” by TIME Magazine, Hult Prize has trained over one million youth in impact entrepreneurship over the past decade, the movement has deployed more than $50 Million of capital into the field and mobilized and empowered millions of young people to re-think the future of business as it continues to breed disruptive innovation on college and university campuses across 120 plus countries. The Hult Family – founders of Education First (EF)-donates USD 1 million in seed capital to help the winning team launch a social enterprise each year.
What is the Hult Prize On Campus Program?
Hult Prize On Campus Program is the quarterfinal round of the Hult Prize, the winners of which will advance to the Regionals Summit. In Nepal, the Hult Prize On-Campus Program is hosted at Tribhuvan University (IOE and SOMTU), Kathmandu University, Pokhara University, Purbanchal University, Kings College, etc.
What is Hult Prize at Tribhuvan University (SOMTU)?
Hult Prize at School of Management Tribhuvan University, is the event where all the non-science / non technical students can participate (IOE Pulchowk hosts event for the science/technological) which allows the winning team to bypass the traditional application process and fast track their idea through one of the 30 plus Regional Final rounds of the competition.
What is your role as the Campus Director?
As a Campus Director for Hult Prize at Tribhuvan University, I have been selected to train, educate and inspire students by building impact community around On Campus activities, spread awareness of the Hult Prize 2020 Challenge and fulfill all requirements to have the winning team of Hult Prize on Campus at Tribhuvan University advance directly to the Regional Summits around the world on March 2020.
How have you planned to organize the event?
This year we plan to reach to most of the colleges affiliated to Tribhuvan University from eastern Nepal to Far-West Nepal. We will be conducting an orientation session and appointing a Campus
A representative for the colleges and coordinating with them to make the event impactful. The fact is dated to be held at the School of Management premises on December 7, 2019.
What message do you want to flourish through us?
Thanking ICT Frame Magazine, I express my sincere gratitude for providing this fantastic opportunity to voice myself through this platform; I would like to reach out to all the organizations and business corporations to extend their hands to support us and help us lead a generation to change the world: Through Good, For Good.
Locus, a national technological festival organized by students from Pulchowk Campus has been providing opportunities for students all over Nepal to grow in the technical field with competitive programs.
Interview with the Locus-2019 coordinator Subash Ghimire is presented below.
What is Locus?
Locus is a pot, basically, a platform that brings together technological minds. It brings people devoted to the field of technology together and provides them with the opportunity to present their ideas and improve their skills. It shows what we can create, what has been designed and what can be produced.
What separates Locus from other similar clubs in Nepal?
Locus is the mother among all other clubs. Sixteen years ago, in 2003, thinking and organizing such a huge event wasn’t to be considered of in Nepal. Pulchowk Central Campus has all the infrastructures, devoted faculty members that are necessary to bring together such an event, so other public and private colleges learned from Locus.
How much has Locus, as a committee grown over the years?
It started with three members in 2003, the following electrical department was added to the event. It began as a platform to show the final year project and later began to provide training, conducting workshops, organizing pre-events and now hosting the biggest technological festival in Nepal.
Locus has been able to maintain high standards for over a decade, to whom does the credit go?
The faculty members in Pulchowk campus, infrastructures of Pulchowk, a committee over the years, interactive students within the college and all the visitors, participants get the credit for the success of Locus.
Do you think Locus has been able to provide a perfect platform to the idea seeking minds of the country?
Still not. We are still learning and developing. We still lack stability within us. However, starting from this year, we’ve gone into an organizational structure, so we hope we will start off getting disciplined in the way we act.
How much of an impact does Locus have on the development of technical students/society?
In the context of Nepal, the harsh conditions hamper the use of technology in day to day life. Many of us aren’t even aware of what new ideas have come into the world. Students limit YouTube and the internet for entertainment. The course that we are taught is limited to theories. The laziness from both sides in the educational system has caused limited innovations and ideas. So, we plan to create a society with bold students, that try new things even if it doesn’t produce the outcome they seek.
Is there anything about Locus-2019 that you would like to highlight?
Our mission is to involve a different circle of people. We are organizing RoboLocus, which is a robotics competition for +2 level students. Children in technology is another event that includes school level students. We mainly focused on governmental schools as the private schools have better infrastructures for the students. We hope to achieve parallel development by organizing such events. Likewise, events like Dronacharya, RoboWars, Project Competition, Hack-a-Week, Energy Hackathon, Code camp have provided the students from engineering or IT background to develop their skills.
Anything that you would like to say to the upcoming generations of Nepal to grow technically?
“Nepal lacks the environment to prosper” this thinking has limited everyone to the surface of technological development. Nepal is an open field, any crop you plant will surely provide the result. It will undoubtedly take time since evolution is a lengthy process. But sticking to the surface and blaming the situation of the country won’t help. So, try to do new things, try to learn, we will always try to provide the help needed.
Visit Locus-2019 on Magh 24,25,26 at Pulchowk Campus.
To know more about Locus and its events visit Locus’s website.
Hult Prize 2018 Challenge all over the Globe. Harnessing the Power of Energy To Transform The Lives Of 10 Million People. Interview with Campus Director for Hult Prize PU, Sudarshan GC.
What is the Hult Prize?
The Hult Prize is the world’s most significant student competition and start-up platform for social good. In partnership with the United Nations and former President Bill Clinton, this innovative crowdsourcing platform identifies & launches disruptive and catalytic social ventures that aim to solve the planet’s most pressing threats. Student teams compete around the globe for a chance to secure US$1 million in start-up funding to launch a sustainable social venture. The 2019 Hult Prize will focus on the burning social problem of youth unemployment. On the course of the event, all participants should pitch their idea of providing 10,000 jobs in a decade.
Competing in Hult Prize is easy
What is Hult Prize Purbanchal University?
It is the first on-campus event of Hult Prize to be held on Purbanchal University at Southwestern State College. It is a quarterfinal competition for Hult Prize where only 20 teams will get chance to pitch their ideas in front of experienced judges in 2 phases. Forty-three teams are already registered, but due to the time limitation, screening of the views is going on to choose the top 20 ideas among 43 ideas by their applications. Only 6 minutes will be given for each team for pitching. A winning team can get an opportunity to go to a regional.
How is the necessary preparation for the event going on?
We are ready for the event with much excitements. We have tried to include ideas which can disrupt different fields like agriculture, tourism, transportation, communication, music, etc. To ensure the perfect judging, we have invited judges who have established themselves as the top entrepreneurs of Nepal. If you have an ideal model to generate enough jobs, you can still apply at- http://www.hultprizeat.com/purbanchal. We also invite our well-wishers to the event. We won’t make anyone feel that it is the first time we are organizing the Hult Prize event.
What are the criteria for judging the idea?
Ideas are judged by the scoreboard provided by Hult Prize Foundation. Best ideas should possess characteristics like sustainability, profitability, feasibility and market-driven, disruptiveness and scalability.
How will it impact Nepal and Nepali students?
In countries like Nepal where the significant problems are labor drain and brain drain, this competition unites all the university level students to fight for their problems. Also, it is the best opportunity to represent Nepal in international competition.
Lastly, this event will help all the Purbanchal University’s students to prove who they are and what they can generate. I wish them good luck for the competition.
There has been a great debate between Computer Science Information and Technology (CSIT) and Bachelors of Engineering in Information Technology (BEIT) since a long time ago. The conflict and confusion between these two courses take place in both academic and professional life.
Recently, the National Examinations Board (NEB) has published the result of grade 12, and now there are thousands of students planning to pursue their academic career in IT education. For a student who wants to pursue their career in IT training, it is always hard for them to choose between CSIT and BEIT. Targeting those students, we have prepared a post that might clear a long-running confusion between CSIT and BEIT. Hope this article will be worth reading to you.
Bachelors of Engineering in Information and Technology (BEIT)
“If someone likes to set their career in software development, communication technology, and IT industry then BEIT is the finest option for them,” said Niranjan Khakurel, Principal at Nepal College of Information Technology (NCIT). Comparatively, BEIT has the broad scope, added Khakurel.
BEIT is a unique blend of Information and Communication Technology. It prepares the student to function effectively in this dynamic technological era. The program focuses on applying cutting-edge technologies for the socio-economic development of the nation. It is perfectly designed to meet the needs of an ever-growing information and communication technology industry here or abroad. The degree produces highly qualified ICT professionals in hardware, software, networking, and communication technology for the digital future.
Key Learning Outcomes
Analyze Design and Develop software or computer systems and secure design networks and monitor them to handle data and information worldwide.
Enable the automation of organizational tasks through computers and telecommunications equipment to improve efficiency.
Gain specialization in configuration, integration, development, and testing of systems and networks to meet industrial needs.
Resolve system related issues and troubleshoot communication and networking problems to ensure smooth operation.
Acquire skills and expertise in intelligent information retrieval systems to benefit decision-making bodies in an organization.
Colleges that offer the program of BEIT
The course of BEIT is available only at Pokhara University (PU) affiliated colleges. Here are the names of the colleges that provide the program for BEIT.
Nepal College of Information Technology (NCIT)
Everest Engineering College (EEC)
Cosmos College of Management and Technology
In every eight years, PU updates the curriculum of BEIT. Likewise, the course of elective subjects are updated as per the need and demands of the market, informed Khakurel.
Another exciting thing about BEIT is graduate of this course can have the title of Er in front of their names.
Computer Science Information and Technology (CSIT)
CSIT is another subject which has an extreme level of hype at the present scene of Nepal. In Computer Science Information Technology (CSIT) you have to learn about the actual science behind the computers, computing programming, and analysis of computing. An IT career involves installing, organizing and maintaining computer systems as well as designing and operating networks and databases.
Perks of pursuing the course of CSIT
CSIT course is an updated course, and the curriculum is frequently updated.
It is more focused on Job-oriented skills in a course
It has more freedom for selecting the elective subject during 6 and six additional semesters.
You can choose any career of your own like programming, networking, database, etc.
Colleges that offer the course of CSIT
There are many numbers of colleges that provide the program of CSIT. The list of the colleges are as mentioned below:
Aberdeen International College
Academia International College
Aims College
Ambikeshwori Campus
Ambition Academy
Amrit Science Campus
Asian College of Higher Studies College of IT and Computer Science
NADA Auto Show 2018 that kicked off from 11 September is the largest automobile fair of an entire nation. Around 60 thousand participants are anticipated to visit the gala.
To know more about the show we present an interview session with Krishna Prasad Dulal, Acting Chairman of NADA. Read the full interview for further information.
What are the major attractions of NADA Auto Show 2018?
Electric vehicles are the major attraction of NADA 2018. Every year NADA show comes with new things. New Schemes, latest offers and among others.
It is heard that NADA faced a lot of trouble while installing the stalls, how accurate is it?
We went through lots of troubles while managing the stalls. The space of Bhrikitumandap became small and limited to us. There is no proper place to organize the shows on an international level. The government seriously needs to keep these things in mind.
We brought one dome from India. We got a demand for many other stalls, but unfortunately, we couldn’t set them because of the small space. That’s why we could not manage booths for some of the companies.
Do you think it is a big thing to establish a hall of international level for automobile dealers?
If the government will provide us land or if they will extend the space of Bhrikutimandap we can make it. NADA is ready to do it. The government also should make up its mind. There is vacant land behind Bhrikutimandap. Similarly, Bhakatapur and Chobhar also have unoccupied land.
At last, what would you like to say regarding NADA Auto Show?
We worked hard for NADA. While visiting NADA one can gain a plethora of knowledge. We want to make the show more information and expect to get feedback from our visitors. I ensure visitors of NADA won’t get disappointed.
Surendra Kumar Uprety has been working for NADA from a long time ago. Currently, he is the treasurer of the NADA working committee. Uprety is primarily involved in trade and manufacture of wheels and lube in the Nepali market. To know more about the business and industry of wheels and lube we present an interview with Mr. Uprety.
How is the current trade status of wheels and lube in Nepal?
In comparison with earlier years, it is going well. Now many companies manufacture wheels, tube, lube, spare and many other vehicle accessories.
Since the tyres carry a very significant role in automobiles but also there is no harm in this sector, what could be the reason behind this?
History clearly states that the development of human and tyres took place in the same period. The small profit margin is not allowing this sector to gain a charm. It is hard to survive for those companies who have fewer profit margins. Likewise, there are very few companies in Nepal that manufacture tyres. Earlier the government had Gorkhali Rubber Industry.
Similarly, there is still a tire industry in Biratnagar. Now gradually the glamour towards the sector will increase. If the government allows us, then we can establish a multinational tire company in Nepal. I have researched a lot regarding these things.
You have been working for a long time but why are you still unsuccessful to run the industry, what are the challenges to run the business?
The first thing that is making me unsuccessful in operating the tire industry in Nepal is the government’s nuclear policy. We are small businesspersons we can’t invest a significant amount of money without any guarantees. There are many people around us interested in investing in this field. But the thing is government does not have any policy that safeguards the financial investments, social security and among others.
If the government creates a proper environment, then we can earn many international investors for this sector. I have already asked the government to hand over Gorkhlai Tyre to me. If the Gorkhali Tyre will be operated by following PPP model we can give an employment opportunity to more than 500 people.
Usually, an ordinary people care a lot about cars, but they are unaware or clueless about wheels, spare parts, lubricant, and other stuff, so to overcome this condition what kind of steps or plans you have sketched in Auto Show?
The importance of wheels and lubricants can be realized only after buying the vehicle. Of course, people care a lot about cars. But I don’t think that people are unaware of our services, my experience tells them too notice about these things. There are many lubricants available on the market, but we have been alerting people to use grease and wheels that give a strong performance.
ICT Frame presents an Interview session with Dhruba Raj Sharma (Sudip) Secretary General of NPCERT and President of Mid Western Information and Technology Society. In this interview, we had tried to know about the status of ICT in rural areas of Nepal.
Read the full interview to know what Mr. Sharma has to tell regarding this subject.
How is the development status of information and technology in rural areas of Nepal?
The development status of Information and technology in rural areas of Nepal is still vulnerable. The government and the organizations who are supposed to work for the development of information and technology in rural areas are not showing their effort in a proper way.
As you are the President of Mid Western Information and Technology Society, could you tell us about the contribution you have given to the sector of ICT?
Till date, the society has done many works related to ICT. Currently, we are organizing various awareness program related to cyber security, technology and among others. Similarly, we have also launched various training and awareness program in different schools and colleges of Mid West.
What kinds of work are being carried out in rural areas related with ICT?
Well things are changing. The reach of internet in rural areas is gradually taking place. Different Internet Service Provider (ISP) has established their branch even in the rural areas. Similarly, Computer Association of Nepal (CAN) is putting a great effort for the development of ICT in rural areas. They are involved in hosting various programs for the development of ICT in rural areas.
Though there is the reach of internet and computers in rural areas still the majority of people in rural areas are computer illiterate, they even don’t have any idea about internet and technology so how are you educating people about these things?
As I have told earlier, various program related to ICT are being launched in such kinds of areas. The youths and school kids are majorly targeted in those programs which make us easy to make our program successful. Likewise, in those areas now there is an availability of education-related with IT. Developments of ICT in rural areas are taking place but it is not as expected.
ICT Frame presents an interview session with Binita Shrestha who is the CEO of Women in STEM Nepal. Women in STEM Nepal is a social enterprise which conducts Workshops for high schools kids and young undergraduate girls. WiSTEM motives to encourage and promote young girls in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics as the field has a considerable gender gap.
How did the concept of Women in STEM Nepal come up in your mind?
First of all STEM stands for Science Technology Engineering Mathematics. Back in 2009 when I was in my high school, I took Physics and computer science as my major subjects. I was only the girl student taking physics and computer science as my primary subject, the rest of the girls was in the biology group. Being around the numbers of boys was awkward for me. I requested many of my female friends to come to my class, but they denied.
Form the very early days of my childhood I always wanted to be an engineer and luckily I was right in science and mathematics. After high school, when I went to university for my engineering course, I found many girls whose stories were similar to me. After hearing each other stories we decided to do something in STEM then we started Women in the STEM as a community because we were not confident whether it would work or not, but surprisingly it went so well. We got around 100 female participants until the end of a year.
Who inspired you for Women in STEM Nepal?
I enrolled at NCIT College in 2011. After joining NCIT, I realized many things. I found many drawbacks in our education system; the education system seems to have no collaboration with industry and working attitude. While doing Bachelors, I started going to different program related to ICT, leadership and among others which always motivated me to do something new. There held an event called ‘Ncell App Camp’ which came as a turning point for me. I was a leader of my team during the game; the leadership taught me various things. Likewise, I began to participate in many other events then I discerned that many things can be explored.
How is the current status of Women in the STEM?
Well, everything is going great. In every event of ours, we are getting healthy numbers of participants. Similarly, we are coming up with many exciting workshops and events that could be extremely beneficial to all those girls interested in STEM. Likewise, we are getting great positive feedback from everyone.
Like every time this time too we have an exciting interview session. In this post, we are presenting an interview with Muni Bahadur Shakya. Shakya is a very genius person in the world of the computer. He is the inventor of the Devanagari computer, a machine that operates in a Nepali font. Earlier the laptop gained immense popularity and success, but at present, the device is in a deplorable condition. It has been kept in a storeroom. To know more about Devanagari computer we present an interview with Muni Bahadur Shakya.
How and why you invented the Devanagari computer?
Firstly, I realized the lack of Nepali fonts in computers. Back then when I thought about Devanagari, there were around 10 million populations in Nepal. Only the very few of them were able to use equipment and rest of others were having a language barrier while using it. A thought came to my mind, if I add Nepali font into the computer then everyone who was affected by the language barrier while using the network will be able to operate it.
The beginning was very tough for me. There was no access to many types of equipment in Nepal, so I ordered a few of them from a foreign land. Hard disk Interface was complicated to import in Nepal; I could not bring it from a foreign land, so I made it myself in Nepal. I developed formulas to place Nepali font into the computer, preparing the recipes was one of the hardest jobs it took me a very long time.
What kind of complexities did you face while making Devanagari?
Well, Devanagari was full of complexity and difficulties. Adding Nepali font in the system that only reads English word or language was seriously a tough job. Comparatively Nepali fonts have many symbols and alphabets, which made things harder. Managing all those symbols and characters were the total of troubles, I cannot explain all those hurdles in words.
What was the first thing that you wrote after the successful accomplishment of Devanagari?
It was our old national anthem ‘Shriman Gambhir”. Massive numbers of people gathered to observe the Devanagari after it was showcased in Tri- Chandra campus for the first time. International tourist, high-level officers, students, teachers and many other kinds of people gather to view Devanagari. I felt proud and happy at that moment.
Who was the first to order Devanagari?
Agriculture Development Bank ordered the Devanagari for the first time in 1985. Then they started to enter the name of account holders in Nepali. Since then many other government bodies also started using Devanagari.
Himal Karmacharya, a native of small Village Syangjha who graduated and mastered from MIT, dared to build his dream. Karmacharya is CEO of leapfrog- a software company who is brilliantly doing well. To know more about Karmacharya’s successful story we present a short interview session.
How did your journey of entrepreneurship begin?
First of all, I belong to a family where there is a high influence of running business or doing entrepreneurship. I went to USA for my education. While I was in USA I always used to think about doing something in Nepal. When I graduated from MIT I had left out with two options either to start something new or to get enroll in any companies. I joined Oracle, after joining there I met few friends with whom I always used to discuss about different business ideas.
In 2009 I started Deerwalk along with my 2-3 friends and I left the Deerwalk on 2010 and started Leapfrog with some of my friends from oracle. The first idea that came in our mind after starting Leapfrog was mobile banking. At that time the mobile banking was not in existence. We collaborated with Kumari bank and designed software for mobile banking. At present we are working with Silicon Valley and I believe that now we are capable to build world-class software.
What about the ups and downs that you experience during all these years?
Being an entrepreneur there is always a hurdle, but I always look at the positive side and motivate myself to do better.
Since you are the team leader of one of the biggest company, so according to you what are the few qualities that are needed to be in a good team leader?
The very first thing is honesty; one must be honest towards his team, so there won’t be any kind of misunderstanding. Everything should be made clear with teammates. Secondly, there should be proper communication or interaction.
A team member should have a healthy interaction with all the teammates; he should allow them to put their opinion and ideas. Lastly the feedback, either it will be positive or negative the teams leader should collect the feedback from team members regarding every idea that takes place within the company’s policy and strategies.
About Leapfrog
Leapfrog is a software development company founded in 2010 with a mission to be the best and most trusted technology services company to execute customer’s digital vision. Since its inception in 2010, Leapfrog has earned the trust of more than 200 customers worldwide.
Allen Bailochan Tuladhar is the CEO of Unlimited Technology (P) Ltd, a 25-year old technology company that hosts Microsoft Innovation Center in Nepal. He has also served in the High-Level Commission for Information Technology, chaired by the Prime Minister of Nepal, General Secretary of Computer Association of Nepal and a member of SAARC Chamber of Commerce.
Mr. Tuladhar has also driven partnerships with various development sector organizations, such as UNICEF, UNDP, WWF, WFP and UNDP to promote technology, entrepreneurship and youth mobilization. He is also Microsoft Regional Director, bringing about digital transformation with the adoption of emerging technologies such as the cloud and mobile.
Tuladhar returned to Nepal in 1992 from the USA with a hope to revolutionize the country’s IT sector. After returning to Nepal, he had done some great jobs. Firstly he developed Typeshala- a software for users to type in Nepali- entitled as ‘Asiddhi’ after his friend Alok Siddhi and similarly he and his team a computerized system at Rising Nepal—the first of its kind.
Tuladhar has faced a lot of ups and down from the beginning of his career to till date. He tackled all those ups and downs by following five different principles “Panch Gyan” that includes focus, innovation, collaboration, hard work, and perseverance. From the very early days, Tuladhar believes in innovation and doing things differently.
“People call me Nepali Bill gates, but I have nothing similar with him, I don’t even wear glasses,“ he says. Tuladhar met Bill Gates on India for the first time, during a meeting Gates asked: “What can I do t help Nepal?” Tuladhar replied there is a language barrier. We need to find a way around it to help people.” And since then Microsoft Nepal has been helping over 100 schools by providing computers and bridging the gap between language, and education.
Back then when Tuladhar was general secretary of the Computer Association of Nepal, the first ever CAN Infotech was organized, which is now the essential technology fest of Nepal. Tuladhar himself admits that the first edition of CAN went worst. He learned a great lesson from that event and started working harder. Today the CAN is the most awaited technological fair for the entire nation.
The story of Tuladhar inspires youths of the nation, encourages to work hard and teachers to believe in their self.
Since 2001, the Nepal College of Information and Technology (NCIT) has been playing a significant role in the IT sector of Nepal. The college is located at Balkumari, Lalitpur. Currently, the college is offering courses of Engineering and Management at the Bachelor’s and Master’s levels. It is affiliated with Pokhara University ((PU).
The college offers courses in:
Undergraduate programs:
Bachelor of Engineering in Civil Engineering
Bachelor of Engineering in Information Technology
Bachelor of Engineering in Electronics and Communication Engineering
Bachelor of Engineering in Computer Engineering
Bachelor of Engineering in Software Engineering
Business Administration(BBA)
Postgraduate programs:
Master of Engineering in Computer Engineering
Master of Science in Computer Science
Master of Computer Information Systems (MCIS)
To learn more about NCIT and its courses, ICT Frames has set a short interview session with Niranjan Khakurel, Principal of NCIT.
As the college offers 3 different courses related with IT i.e. Bachelors of Engineering in Information and Technology, Bachelor of Engineering in Computer Engineering and Bachelors in Software Engineering, what are the differences between all these courses? ‘
BEIT is a course related with ICT it covers the content of Information, communication and technology. A student pursuing the course of BEIT can be qualified in some of the programming related with communication and technology.
Similarly, Students of software engineering have to read about software development, latest software trend and many other related with computer, IT and software development. Likewise, students of computer engineering covers the courses related with electronics and general science. A computer engineer is responsible for developing, testing and evaluating the software that make our computers work.
What is the status of course offered by PU? How updated is it?
PU launched its new course in 2011. One of the best parts of PU is it does not have to follow the lengthy procedure for upgrading the course. As per the demand of the market and student the course can be updated within a short period.
What kind of environment is available in NCIT for its student?
Since the beginning of college we have been seriously focusing on making a proper environment for the student, and till date, we are thriving on it. Our college does have different kinds of the platform such as Robotic Club, Nepal Open Source Club and Learning Group Club where students can learn practically and enhance their skill.
Similarly, from 2003 NCIT have been launching National Student Conference on IT (NESCOIT) from where students have been able to gain international exposure. Numbers of national and international conference has been organized by the students of NCIT till.
How do you define the teaching and learning activity of NCIT?
All of our teachers are focused on practical teaching methods. We always instruct our students to be creative. With that, we teach them to turn general things into a practical ones.
How often do you provide a professional training course for your students?
In NCIT, before starting any semester, we inform the student about Java, PHP, Android, and other programming languages and software. During any kind of training in college 50 percent of the money is paid by the college itself, and the remaining 50 percent is paid by students.
What kind of relationship does NCIT have with companies that work in the field of IT?
We have an excellent relationship with many IT companies. We have done an MOU with companies like Cisco, Microsoft, and many other IT training centers and software houses.
How is the job placement status of NCIT’s product?
Many of our students are in foreign countries. Similarly, a number of students are doing entrepreneurship. Overall, our students are doing very well in the industry.
Here is a short interview with Mahendra Man Gurung, Secretary of Ministry of Information and Communications. This interview focuses on the current scenario of information and communication in Nepal.
How is the status of information and communication in Nepal?
Information and communication is a significant thing for the whole world. Nepal has experienced many positive changes in different field. The role of information and communication is very significant in all those changes. Keeping the importance of information and communication in mind, the constitution of Nepal has guaranteed an excellent provision related to information and communication.
It is often heard that the Ministry of information and communication is not addressing the right to information in a proper way, what do you have to say on it?
I disagree with this statement. We take a right to information as a sensitive subject because it carries the potential to change human minds from positive to negative. We strictly follow the constitutional provision related to a right to information. We have always provided the information that is required to reach up to the public.
Similarly, we do not provide information that is not supposed to be disclosed among the people. Such kind of information can threaten national security, religious harmony and among others. I too somehow believe that there are some kinds of things related to the right to information that needs to be corrected
Does the private sector complain that the ministry of information and communication only works for the favor of government media and avoids the private one? How true is it?
I don’t think so; we are equally focusing on both kinds of media. Regarding the contents of media, we have strictly instructed the press council to take action against those who disseminate harmful and unethical news.
Here is an interview session with Dr. Jiba Raj Pokharel Vice Chancellor of Nepal Academy of Science and Technology (NAST) regarding the development of technology in Nepal.
Why is the technology sector of Nepal developing slowly?
The primary reason is we are not able to prioritize this sector as it should be. We are not running with the technological trend. Government is not focusing on this sector; they established the Ministry of Science and Technology very late. Along with the government, the public is also less interested in this field. Similarly, the investment in this field is comparatively meager.
Are you satisfied with the work done by your team (NAST) for the development of technology?
Well, we have tried our best during all those working hours. We managed to build different kinds of infrastructure and added some of the equipment which was not available earlier. Similarly, we enrolled in many intelligent and skilled man powers in our team. Still, there are many things to do. We are in the process of experimenting with the different invention. Overall I am quite satisfied with our performance.
Till date, NAST has invented many of the things, but the public is incapable of using them in their daily life, why is so happening?
Indeed the public is not being able to use all those inventions in their daily life, for this government should show some effort. The scientist only invents and discovers things they are not supposed to promote those objects designed by them. It is government duties to encourage all those inventions. Government is not showing good effort these things, which is a sad thing for the entire scientist of state. We do have numbers of useful and effective invention in our place, but the government is failing to recognize them.
Will NAST improve its performance if the government increases its budget on the field of technology?
Of course, NAST can improve its performance if the government will increase the budget in the field of technology. The high budget will allow us to conduct various researches, establish labs, enroll numbers of skilled human resources and among others.
The technology has made changed on our working behavior. The way we use to perform our daily activities is not similar as it used to be before 4- 5 years. The emergence of online shopping has made our life very easy.
By sitting in one corner and applying a click in the screen, you can get your goodies. In this post, we are presenting an online store where you can buy a grocery item. Here is a short interview with Humbal Shahi Thakuri, Co-Founder/CTO and Nitin Sharma, Co-Founder/Social Media Manager of Metro Tarkari.
What is Metro Tarkari all about?
It is an E-Commerce site where you can get fresh items to be it vegetables, fruits, meat products, dairy products, sprouts or any other food you name within your clicks.
How can one use the service of Metro Tarkari?
Well, it’s straightforward. When you enter into the website, you can find different categories related to vegetables or grocer. Choose one among them and click on the item you are seeking. Along with E-commerce, it is also an online vegetable department store. We had tried our best to make it user-friendly so that our customer won’t face any hassle while using it.
How are you ensuring to people that the products available on the site are fresh and beautiful?
Since the establishment, we are always focusing on grade products. Customers can return the vegetables if it is stale and germ-infested.
What about pricing? Is the price of vegetables in Metro Tarakari are similar to other markets?
The prices are comparatively less, but the cost of some items are similar to another market. On average you can get the difference of Rs 4 to 5.
What kind of responses are you getting from the users?
Well till now we are satisfied with all the feedbacks. People are appreciating and praising us for our business.
About Metro Tarkari
It is an E-Commerce site where you can get fresh items to be it vegetables, fruits, meat products, dairy products, sprouts or any other food you name within your clicks.
It delivers new foods to you with decent quality in desired time frame adding value to your foodstuff, supplying the best out of fresh items and mouth-watering organic products. You can get your food at your doorsteps without delivery cost.
Interview with Suman Thapaliya Bachelor in Information Technology (BIT) and Bachelor in Cyber Security (BCS) Coordinator at Texas International College.
As the charm towards pursuing an academic career in IT program is rapidly escalating, numbers of IT institution and colleges has been established in Nepal. Among all those colleges Texas International College is one who is doing an excellent job for IT education since its inception. To know about further plans and programs of Texas, we present a short interview session with Suman Thapaliya, BIT and BCS Coordinator at Texas International College.
What is Texas doing at the current scene?
Recently the results of+2 levels have been published. There are so many students who wanted to enroll in an IT course but confused on choosing the college. At present we are busy with new admission and promotion, just a few days back we participated in an education fair where we counseled around 2000 students.
What makes Texas different than all other colleges, why should one think about joining Texas?
There are many colleges and teacher in the nation providing the same course that is available in our college. But the thing that makes us different is our method of teaching. We believe in the research-based and practical study. We are trying to take academic and industrial experience in a parallel way. All of our practices and experiment on teaching method are successful till now because students from here are doing a great job in the industry. Similarly, there are numbers of students from Texas running their own IT Company. Many of our students have participated in the international conference.
How have you been enhancing the skill of your students?
Beside course book and classroom lectures, we have various things to make our students productive and smart. The college has established its own company ‘Texas Imaginology’ where students learn about the industrial experience. Similarly, we do have a good relationship with many Software development houses where we refer our students for knowledge and skill development.
What is the Key objective of Texas?
The first key objective of Texas is to provide better and quality education. Likewise, we always aspire to an education system that meets the standard of international level. For this, we have been implementing different kinds of practices and method that can be grabbed only while pursuing abroad study. Our teachers who have got an international degree are trying their best to employ a global education system. We believe that an international level of education will help in reducing the growing trend of abroad study.
Generally, in a country like Nepal, it is still so hard to found a female entrepreneur grabbing much success. Finally, here is someone that can be an inspiration to thousands of girls who are aiming to become an entrepreneur.
ICT frame features the story behind the success of Nikita Shrestha CEO/Co-Founder of Urban Girl.
How did you get an inspiration to start Urban Girl?
I used to be amazed whenever I looked at the international online store, a single click, and goods in your hand. There was no proper online store in Nepal when I used to look at those online stores. When I discerned that there is no adequate availability of online stores in Nepal I got an inspiration to launch Urban Girl (UG).
How tough was it to run an online shopping?
Indeed it was a very tough job at the beginning. We faced significant challenges to create a market for online shopping as there was no good market for it. Still, we are trying to grow the market.
Why are people reluctant about online shopping?
First of all, it is a very new thing in the market, and people are inconvenient to adapt it. People do not want to change the traditional market because in Nepal there are still so many people who do not believe in business that operates through computers and the internet. Lack of trust towards the product is one of the primary reasons for not buying goodies from an online platform.
How did the idea of selling cake through online stroked in your mind?
Many of our customers from a foreign land were sending gifts marking different occasions to their friends and relatives. We analyzed and thought about different kinds of presents that can be best for any types of opportunity. In the process, we found a cake as the best option for any type of ceremony. We asked our customers regarding the idea of cake, everyone showed a positive response, and then we tied up with local bakeries and started operation cake.
Would you like to say anything for the youth?
Youths have been doing an immensely good job regarding startup and entrepreneurship. Children should be actively engaged in enhancing and exploring their skill because the land of Nepal has got a tremendous amount of opportunity.
About UG Bazaar
UG Bazaar, an online marketing store, was established in December 2012 with a vision to revolutionize online shopping in Nepal. Till date, the store has served over 6000 customers.
As the charm towards pursuing an academic career in Computer Science Information and Technology (CSIT) is rapidly escalating, numbers of IT institution and colleges have been established in Nepal. To know more about the scope and demands of CSIT, ICT Frame’s correspondent had a short interview session with Shankar Prasad Sharma, CSIT Head at Texas International College. Now let see what he have to say regarding the future of CSIT in Nepal.
Since there has been an extreme growth in IT sector lots of colleges have been established to provide IT education. Among all those colleges what makes Texas different and why should one enroll in it?
There many colleges and institutes in Nepal are providing IT education, but the thing that makes Texas different from those entire academic hubs is its education system. We focus on practical learning. Since we follow a unique and efficient teaching method, our student has been doing a great job in the market. They have been getting the placement in higher level companies of the state
It is often heard that the course of CSIT in Nepal is less practical and ineffective in the market, what do you have to say on it?
Tribhuvan University hadn’t upgraded its course from last 10-15 years which is a sad thing for all the teacher and student associated with CSIT program. Though the University hadn’t updated its progression from a long time back, we have always managed to provide the course of the updated version. We always emphasize on the path that carries a significant role in today’s IT world. As we all know the technology changes every day; that’s why too it is a tough job for a university to change the course. Along with TU curriculum, regarding make our student smarter and updated in the IT scene we are offering various professional courses that are only taught in the foreign university.
Can Texas guarantee for internship and job placement of its students, if yes how?
For deserving students, we can provide the best job opportunities. We do have our own IT company i.e. Softech Foundation. Many of our students are working as an intern and official in Softech. Similarly, we do have a good relationship with many other IT and business industry where our scholars are actively engaged.
Interview with GCSS Coordinator Mr. Chiranjibi Adhikari and Title Sponsor Mr. Sabin Upadhyaya
Information Security Response Team Nepal(NPCERT) & ICT Frame Magazine is Jointly hosting this summit for the first time in Nepal with the primary objective of building Global Alliance for Security Resilience to spread the awareness about the Cybersecurity and to empower participants and organizations with the latest quality information on techniques, strategies, and solutions of ensuring a comprehensive Cybersecurity infrastructure. The Global Cyber Security Summit (GCSS) 2018 will highlight the gap emerged between technology and business enhancements, and therefore, provide national and international organizations with a platform to collaborate.
Milan Raj Nepali, Assistant Director (Head of IT) at Ministry of Finance, GoN, Beema Samiti (Insurance Regulatory Authority of Nepal Govt.). He talked about A Six months before cybercriminals hacked into the IT server of Nepalese Commercial Bank to reportedly steal millions of rupees but Still till date Nepali Banks not prepared to ward off cyber threats.
Here is an interview with 18 years ethical hacker Bishal Shrestha regarding the context of web security and ethical hacking in Nepal.
What have you been doing these days?
Currently, I am researching Cyber Security and learning more about technological stuff.
How did you felt when you got a certificate of White Hacker from top companies of the world?
At first, I didn’t expect anything like this, but my continuity and hard labor made this happen, I am so proud of it, and this achievement has motivated me a lot than ever.
It is said that there is always struggle and failure behind every achievement, what do you have to say on it?
One should face plenty of failures and go through the big struggle before grabbing any success. Even I have met numbers of hurdles and obstacles that can’t be described in words. This sounds strange, but at some point in time, I have even used mobile data to find the bug because there was the unavailability of the internet in my house.
How secure are the Nepali site?
It is in very critical condition. While developing Nepali sites, the security parts are overlooked because of which many Nepali places are at risk of being a hack. Developers of Nepali site often fail in checking its security.
How do you take it when someone calls you a hacker?
Hackers are stills addressed negatively in Nepal. The significance of ethical hacking is increasing from the past few times because of which ordinary people are aware of the importance of ethical hacking; it is a thing to feel proud.
What do you want to suggest for those who want to roll in ethical hacking and web security?
If you want to come to this field degree in IT education is not mandatory. It may sound weird, but I studied economics in school then I completed my high school in Nepali. Till now I don’t have any academic background in computer, what brought me here in this field is my passion. Passion and dedication matter more than anything.
Are you equally active in social areas along with Web Security Research?
Youth like us should not depend on others for every work; we should give our best for the nation’s development. From last year, I have been actively engaged in social work through a Facebook group known as Dari Gang.
What do you expect from the government of Nepal?
I want the government to create a favorable environment to work in Nepal. Government data are still insecure; proper attention towards this thing should be given. Progression of ICT is a boon for the nation’s development, so I expect that the government will put extra effort into the development of ICT.
Do you want to say anything in the end?
Ethical hacking has not been included in any curriculum so far in Nepal; the government should design the curriculum of ethical hacking in every course related to computer and IT. Youth should get the opportunity to work according to their ability and capacity.
Here is an interview with Hemant Chaurasia, President of CAN Federation regarding the current scene of ICT in Nepal. Let’s see what he says.
Government has even prioritized the field of ICT; Ministry of Communication has made a 5-year plan for drastic changes in ICT, in this case, what kind of role will be there of CAN Federation?
It can be surely found that the present government is positively focusing on the development of ICT. Earlier there used to be separate ministry for communication and science and technology but now there is Ministry of information communication and Technology.
Concerning for the development of the country the government’s positive policy regarding ICT should reach on every sector and every part of the country. For this CAN Federation will always assist the government actively.
Government is also planning to provide access of ICT in urban areas, in this task of government CAN is ready to help the government in every possible way.
Being the umbrella organization of private sector, CAN Federation will create a proper environment to work for the development of ICT.
Within two years the government has planned to provide standard communication facility and high-speed Internet at every local level, Similarly, digitalizing all the community school is also included in the plan. The budget for these plans has already been separated. What do you have to say about it? Is it possible to digitalize all the community school?
The government has already proceeded towards making digital education system in the community school. Being a President of CAN I must say wheatear it is private or government organization works on paper are still highly in operation. Still, the implementations of digital services are in unsafe condition. In every field, digitalization is not appropriately focused yet.
The concept like Digital India, Digital China has already been developed. Soon Nepal will also grow such kind of concept; we will bring it because it is our responsibility.
The process of digitalizing community schools and providing high internet facility and proper communication service will take some time. Nepal Government and other organizations have checked the situations delicately, that’s why digitalizing the community school is possible. Supports from private and government organizations are highly required for this mission.
Topics like smart city and smart society are gaining high popularity. What kind of progress is happening on these things? How long will it take for the beginning of Smart Nepal?
Recently we have done an IT conference regarding ‘Sustainable development for smart society’. CAN Federation is about to submit its report to the government.
The concept of a smart city has developed the idea of digital Nepal. The most excellent plans for the lively city cannot be established until and unless we don’t include our culture, tradition, nature, education system on it. Thinking only from the western perspective will be the hurdle for the process of a smart city.
The government has already disclosed seven cities for the process of smart city, but the work has not been started yet. We believe that the present government will anyhow complete this mission. The movement is not in the speed as it is supposed to be in.
A few weeks back, the meeting of the Council of Ministers has been paperless. The need of communication and technology for government has increased. What is the condition of the government’s information and technology now? Have we moved on the path of E-Governance?
Comparatively, there has been a drastic change in the working style of government offices. Not only council of minister many other government sectors have also been computerized. It is a thing to be proud. Seeing this process it will not be wrong to say that we have already stepped towards digital Nepal.
We can’t say that our status regarding information and technology is poor. But if we compare with other developed countries we are back enough.
Definitely, Nepal is moving towards digital Nepal because thing stuff license, citizenship, bank cards, bus, hotels, and restaurants have become technological friendly.
CAN often organizes its program in a collaboration different internet service provider, But there is also criticism that the common Nepali are most often cheated regarding the speed and service of internet. Is CAN unaware or less interested towards these things?
CAN Federation is a representative of private sectors. It is NTA’s job to monitor the quality of internet. Regarding this issue, we have been complaining to NTA for a long time.
To avoid issues regarding poor internet service and speed government should make strict rules and policies. The present internet status is comparatively better. Concerned authority is being reckless towards the problem.
What are the future plans of CAN for the development of information and technology?
There are a lot of works that CAN Federation should perform. Our directive consists of many errors; first of all, we need to correct it. The most important thing is the organization is not developing as it is supposed to be. Recently district and state branch have been formed, even the structure of the state came in. Proper management of the organization will be one of the main focus of CAN.
The next thing is Federation doesn’t have its own building; it is carrying all of its work in a rented house. We are planning to quickly manage this problem. Our effort on digitalizing the nation, building the scope of ICT and creating technological friendly environment will always be there.
Swati Dayal, Co-founder of Sagoon.com, has come to Nepal for a few days visit. She has planned to share some light about Sagoon through CAN INFOTECH. Nepalese being more interested in Sagoon was one of the primary reason for her visit to the country. Here, we present you the conversation Barhakhari had with Swati Dayal:
What is the Main Objective Behind Visit to Nepal?
I love Nepal, and I do not miss a chance to visit Nepal ever. Since the operation of Sagoon, Nepalese have shown full support for Sagoon. Either from inside the country or outside, Nepalese has never stopped to show their enthusiasm and interests towards Sagoon. It is because of them we can reach this level of success. For this, I want to thank you all from the core of my heart. However, this time, one of my purpose of visit to Nepal is for CAN INFOTECH too. I supposed this was the best opportunity to talk about Sagoon. So I was in a kind of rush to come to Nepal.
During Observation in CAN INFOTECH, How was Youth’s Response to Sagoon?
Honestly, I did not think that there would be this massive amount of crowd at Sagoon booth. Everyone present there had a positive attitude towards the company. The opinions they held of Sagoon was one of the most significant encouragements for me. They liked the fact that Sagoon is different and preferred it for its distinct ingenuity.
What is the Primary Reason for Bringing Sagoon to Use?
The primary motive is to make communications between people more comfortable and convenient. The fact that Sagoon tries to bind people to social network in reality rather than in digitally has been the driving factor for Sagoon. The founder of Sagoon Govinda Giri was the first one who turned Sagoon into reality. Moreover, to give people an authentic taste of technology in countries like Nepal and India, which are falling behind in technology Sagoon was developed.
What are the critical features of Sagoon?
We recently introduced new features in Sagoon on 9 January 2018. The features include ‘My day,’ ‘Secret’ and ‘Mood Talk.’ ‘My day’ is like a daily routine designed to create your plan for the day. You can also include your important schedules through the feature ‘Reminder’ since most of us forget the important thing most of the time. Likewise, people can share their secrets via ‘Secret’ feature. ‘Mood Talk’on the other hand helps people to describe their mood and share it. After sharing it, other people can also talk.
How is the Response of People in South Asia?
Many consider Sagoon as the role model of Social network. They are quite happy to use this application. The number of people using Sagoon has already reached thousands in South Asia. They all have shown liking towards Sagoon.
What Is The Future Plan For Sagoon?
Our work schedule for this year is quite hectic. We have developed an Android app for Sagoon. We are also soon planning to create an app in IOS platform within this year too. The plan for Sagoon this year is to develop it to its fullest.
What is The Reason To Use This Application?
Giri founded Sagoon with the primary purpose to give it a unique identification in technology in entire South Asia and Nepal, especially with the aim to encourage people. Humans all should form a big community, and Sagoon will help with its formation. In addition to this, apps inside Sagoon has also helped people relieve their mental stress to some extent. Moreover, Sagoon is working to strengthen the relationship between each other through the app.
It’s not every day that you have an opportunity to change the world. If you have a business plan to solve the Energy Crisis, register soon.
What is HP at IOE Pulchowk?
Hult Prize is the world’s largest startup accelerator for social entrepreneurship with a winning prize of 1 Million USD. Each year students from all around the world are challenged on a critical social issue, who then work to develop social business models that could impact billions of lives.
Hult Prize at IOE, Pulchowk Campus is the Quarter Final Rounds for Hult Prize Global Finals, in which students from Tribhuwan University can compete to automatically advance to the Regional Finals and represent our University happening in one of the 15 different Regional locations worldwide on March 2018.
The theme for this year?
The central theme for this year is, “Harnessing the Power of Energy to impact 10 Million lives by 2025”. It focuses more on utilizing Energy to solve some of the world’s prominent problems across six core dimensions: Mobility, Health, Agriculture, Food, Water and Connectivity.
The challenge for this year gives students the opportunity to flex their creative skills across a broader range. I am hopeful that we will see some world-changing ideas this year.
Event Format :
In the initial stage, we are accepting applicants from students of Tribhuwan University until Nov 30. For registering, students just have to enter their team info on our website: http://www.hultprizeat.com/pulchowkkathmandu. They don’t need an idea at this stage, and we will also help them, improve their designs. We will follow up them with an idea entry application.
From the initial pool, a panel of mentors and judges will select a limited number of applicants by December first week. These teams will undergo a week-long mentor-ship program to improve their business models.
Finally, they will pitch their ideas amongst a panel of judges on December 13, who will then select the team winning team which will be representing our university at the Regional Finals in March. We will also have a National event next year, where best teams from all universities of Nepal will again compete to gain funding at the local level.
How will it impact Nepal and Nepali students?
I am hopeful that we ( HP at KU, TU (IOE and SOMTU), PU) will give chances to ideas that are gonna impact Nepal for better. More than a million households in Nepal are not connected to the grid; millions of people are not related in terms of communication, there are still places in Nepal where for-profit businesses refuse to enter.
In such a situation, we are going to create business models that will solve the real problems of society. We aim to inspire social entrepreneurs who impact the bottom portion of the social pyramid.
Through events like these, we are encouraging students to “think outside the box,” we are helping them to find opportunity in crisis. In this regard, we will be impacting Nepal, and I am hopeful that we will see some disruptive social businesses in Nepal in the years to come.
Notice on Online Courses from LBEF Campus’ website
