Nepal’s Transformation Hinges on Digitalization: Chief Secretary Aryal
15th August 2025, Kathmandu
Chief Secretary Ek Narayan Aryal delivered a powerful message at the Digital Nepal Conclave 2025 on Friday, asserting that transformation is fundamentally impossible without digitalization.
Nepal Digitalization Progress
His remarks underscored the critical role of technology in revolutionizing service delivery, governance, and the socio-economic landscape of Nepalese society.
Speaking to a packed audience, Aryal emphasized that true digitalization goes far beyond merely using computers. “Transformation is impossible without digitalization. To transform service delivery, governance, and socio-economic development, digitalization must take place,” he stated. He highlighted the urgent need for robust digital infrastructure development and seamless interoperability between systems to achieve this vision.
Bridging the Digital Divide: Interconnected Systems are Key
Chief Secretary Aryal pointed out a crucial flaw in the current digital landscape: the fragmentation of systems. “Just typing on a computer does not mean digitalization. For that, systems must be interconnected,” he explained. He noted that both the private sector and the government currently operate independent systems, stressing that integrating these disparate platforms is essential for progress.
He further elaborated on the pressing need for an overhaul of existing government systems, many of which he candidly described as “outdated” and “expired.” “The systems for foreign employment, immigration, procurement, financial management, passports, and citizenship have all become outdated. In a way, they are already ‘expired,’ but we are still running them,” Aryal revealed.
A Call to Action for Nepalese IT Companies
Recognizing the challenges of relying on foreign expertise, Aryal issued a direct appeal to Nepalese IT companies. He acknowledged past limitations in local capacity that necessitated foreign assistance but asserted that the time has come for domestic innovation.
“In the past, we did not have the capacity. We barely managed to build these systems with the help of foreign companies. Now, those companies no longer come when we seek them. So, you (private IT companies in Nepal) must come forward to improve these systems. You are invited.”
He challenged the local IT sector, stating, “What’s the use of saying you can build and improve systems for the US or UK? We need to improve Nepal’s systems. Praising others will not help—our systems must be improved.”
Paving the Way for a Digital Ecosystem
To foster a comprehensive digital ecosystem, Chief Secretary Aryal outlined several key areas requiring special attention:
Digital Infrastructure Development: Laying the foundational networks and hardware necessary for widespread digital access.
Skilled Human Resources: Cultivating and retaining a workforce proficient in digital technologies.
Digital Literacy: Empowering citizens with the knowledge and skills to effectively utilize digital tools.
Interoperability: Ensuring seamless communication and data exchange between different systems.
Cybersecurity: Protecting digital assets and data from evolving threats.
He also urged stakeholders to provide valuable suggestions for necessary amendments in policies and laws to facilitate this crucial digital transformation. Aryal’s address serves as a clear roadmap and a powerful call to action for all involved in shaping Nepal’s digital future.
For more: Nepal Digitalization Progress
