Kathmandu University’s KURCH: A Bridge For Academia, Industry, Global Networks

3rd June 2025, Kathmandu

Kathmandu University (KU) is poised to usher in a new era of academic innovation and global partnerships with the grand inauguration of the Kathmandu University Research and Collaboration Hub (KURCH) tomorrow, June 4, 2025, at 2:15 PM.

Kathmandu University’s KURCH

The highly anticipated event will take place in CIKU Hall, marking a significant milestone in Nepal’s research landscape.

KURCH represents KU’s forward-thinking vision, establishing a dedicated space designed to foster interdisciplinary research, cultivate international collaborations, and accelerate technological advancements. This strategic initiative aims to bridge the gap between academia, industry, and global research networks, thereby opening new avenues for transformative discoveries within the Nepalese context and beyond.

The inauguration ceremony will feature an inspiring keynote speech by Professor Dr. Sudan Jha, a distinguished Lead Researcher and Senior IEEE Member at Kathmandu University. Dr. Jha, whose extensive contributions to electrical and electronic engineering research have been foundational to KU’s research culture, will share insights on the crucial role of research ecosystems, the impact of emerging technologies, and the university’s leadership in regional innovation.

Professor Dr. Sudan Jha, a prominent academic and Lead Researcher at Kathmandu University, also serves as the Vice President of Nepal’s first community-based Computer Emergency Response Team, Information Security Response Team Nepal (npCert). Led by Dr. Rajib Subba, a respected expert in cybersecurity and digital governance, npCert was conceptualized and founded by Chiranjibi Adhikari, who serves as its Founder President. Adhikari, also the CEO of One Cover Private Limited—one of Nepal’s leading cybersecurity firms—plays a key role in advancing the country’s digital resilience. Together, they are committed to strengthening Nepal’s cybersecurity ecosystem through a community-driven and collaborative response model.

Adding a unique perspective, Bisheshwor Neupane, a proud alumnus of Kathmandu University and currently a Research Assistant at Johns Hopkins University, will deliver a special address as the Guest Alumni Speaker. Neupane is expected to recount his academic journey, emphasize the invaluable role of research mentorship, and highlight how platforms like KURCH can empower students to achieve global recognition.

More than just a physical space, KURCH is envisioned as a dynamic collaborative movement with ambitious goals. It aims to provide vital support to young researchers and faculty through grants, resources, and mentorship opportunities.

Furthermore, the hub is set to attract global research collaborations across diverse fields, including STEM, social sciences, and innovation studies, significantly enhancing Nepal’s academic presence in the global research community. KURCH will also actively foster innovation and entrepreneurship through real-world, impact-driven projects.

The inauguration is expected to draw a distinguished audience of academic leaders, researchers, students, and industry partners, underscoring KURCH’s potential to position Kathmandu University as a national hub for academic excellence.

This initiative reinforces KU’s commitment to addressing real-world challenges through groundbreaking research and strategic collaborations.

Join Kathmandu University in celebrating this pivotal moment for research in Nepal and be part of a movement that is set to shape the future of knowledge, innovation, and collaboration.

For more: Kathmandu University’s KURCH