15 August 2024, Kathmandu
In a crucial effort to strengthen Nepal’s digital infrastructure, the Information Security Response Team Nepal (npCert), in collaboration with the Center for Cyber Security Research and Innovation (CSRI) and Texas College of Management and IT, organized a stakeholder consultation on the National Cybersecurity Policy 2080.
Cybersecurity Challenges and Strategies
This significant event brought together key stakeholders from various sectors to contribute to developing a robust and inclusive cybersecurity policy. The aim was to ensure that the policy reflects the diverse perspectives and needs of all relevant parties, fostering a secure and resilient digital environment across the nation.
Key Figures Discuss Cybersecurity Challenges
During the consultation, Chiranjibi Adhikari, President of npCert, emphasized the pressing need for a comprehensive National Cybersecurity Policy. Adhikari underscored the importance of fortifying Nepal’s digital infrastructure to safeguard against rising cyber threats, highlighting the necessity of a strong policy framework to protect the nation’s digital assets and ensure long-term resilience.
Dr. Rajib Subba, a former DIG, focused on the critical role of cybersecurity education in Nepal. He advocated for enhancing educational programs with a focus on practical skill development to prepare the next generation of cybersecurity professionals. Dr. Subba’s insights suggest that a reevaluation of current educational structures is needed to better equip students with the expertise required to combat evolving cyber threats.
Ganesh Ghimire, a FinTech expert, provided an in-depth analysis of the prospects and challenges of cross-border transactions in Nepal. He highlighted the vulnerabilities in international financial dealings and called for strengthened security measures to protect these transactions. Ghimire’s expertise pointed to the need for both regulatory and technological advancements to support secure cross-border financial activities.
Promoting Cyber Literacy and Addressing Policy Gaps
Resham Bhandari, representing InfoDevelopers, stressed the importance of cyber literacy at the grassroots level. He argued that raising awareness and understanding of cyber threats among the general population is essential for creating a secure digital environment. Bhandari’s focus on community-level education initiatives reflects a broader strategy to enhance national cybersecurity from the ground up.
Sharad Chandra Pyakurel highlighted the slow pace of policy implementation despite the industry-friendly nature of existing regulations. He pointed out the gap between policy formulation and execution, suggesting that bridging this gap is necessary to achieve meaningful progress in cybersecurity.
Birendra Singh Dhami contributed insights through case studies of cybercrime incidents in Nepal, emphasizing the need for more effective law enforcement and legal frameworks to combat the rising tide of cyber offenses in the country.
Collaboration and Education as Pillars of Cybersecurity
Dr. Suman Thapaliya, Head of the IT Department, underscored the importance of involving all relevant stakeholders in the development of cybersecurity policy. He argued that a collaborative approach is essential for creating a comprehensive and effective framework that addresses the complex challenges of cybersecurity. By engaging diverse perspectives, Thapaliya believes the policy will be more robust and adaptable to evolving digital threats.
Dhurba Raj Sharma (Sudip), General Secretary of npCert, elaborated on the critical role of cybersecurity education and effective incident handling. He emphasized that enhancing cybersecurity awareness and training at all levels is essential to prepare individuals and organizations to respond swiftly and effectively to cyber threats. Sharma also highlighted the importance of establishing robust incident handling protocols to mitigate the impact of cyber-attacks and ensure a coordinated response across the nation.
npCert’s Role in Enhancing Cybersecurity in Nepal
The Information Security Response Team Nepal (npCert) is dedicated to improving cybersecurity in Nepal by promoting security awareness across industry, academia, and the public sector. npCert focuses on the research and analysis of cybersecurity incidents, actively gathering and disseminating technical information to enhance national cyber resilience. As these experts continue to advocate for policy improvements, educational advancements, and grassroots initiatives, Nepal moves closer to developing a more secure and resilient digital infrastructure.
Cybersecurity Challenges and Strategies for Nepal: Insights from Key Experts