28th October 2024, Kathmandu
The International Conference on Artificial Intelligence and Robotics 2024 began with an impactful opening ceremony, setting the stage for a transformative event in Kathmandu, Nepal.
Nepal’s AI and Robotics Conference 2024
The conference, themed “Fueling the Future: The Synergy of AI, Technology, and Innovation in Empowering Today’s Youth,” brings together AI and robotics experts, policymakers, business leaders, and innovators worldwide to explore cutting-edge advancements and discuss Nepal’s digital future. The Robotics Association of Nepal and the National Youth Federation of Nepal organize the event.
Visionary Remarks by Hon. Minister PS Gurung, MOCIT, Government of Nepal
Hon. Minister PS Gurung, representing the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology (MOCIT), delivered closing remarks during the opening session. He emphasized Nepal’s potential to harness AI and robotics for sustainable development, inclusive growth, and digital transformation. Reflecting on the theme, Minister Gurung remarked that AI and robotics hold the power to uplift Nepal’s economy and empower the youth with skills for a prosperous future.
Minister Gurung quoted Dr. Fei-Fei Li in his speech: “I imagine a world in which AI is going to make us work more productively, live longer, and have cleaner energy.” This vision aligns well with Nepal’s ongoing efforts to incorporate AI into critical sectors, such as industry, education, and public services, fostering a vibrant AI ecosystem that serves all citizens.
Nepal’s Path to Becoming a Technology Hub: Opportunities and Challenges
Minister Gurung highlighted the many opportunities AI and robotics present for Nepal, particularly in fields like industry automation, research, customer service, and governance. He stressed that with well-planned strategies and investments, Nepal can emerge as a hub for advanced technology and innovation in South Asia.
Several priority initiatives were outlined, including
Customer Service Excellence and Digital Governance: AI applications in customer service and online services are central to Nepal’s digital transformation, providing improved efficiency and accessibility for citizens.
IT Special Economic Zone: Plans to establish an IT Special Economic Zone with state-of-the-art infrastructure, tax incentives, and support for startups are underway. This will accelerate Nepal’s digital economy and attract global investments.
Business Process Outsourcing (BPO): Promoting BPO opportunities will create employment for Nepal’s youth while stimulating economic growth and generating essential revenue streams.
Digital Infrastructure and Ecosystem Development: A collaborative model between the public and private sectors will strengthen digital infrastructure, preparing Nepal to support seamless connectivity and advanced data processing capabilities.
Advancing Nepal’s Digital Transformation: Key Policies and Strategic Initiatives
MOCIT has already made significant strides in laying the groundwork for digital transformation. Minister Gurung discussed the Digital Nepal Framework (DNF), with plans to refine it further to address emerging digital transformation needs. Other important policy initiatives in progress include:
Drafting of IT and Cybersecurity Legislation: Ongoing revisions to the Cybersecurity Act and formulation of the National Cyber Security Policy aim to create a safe digital environment.
National A.I. Policy: The formulation of a national AI policy is underway, establishing guidelines for ethical and effective AI use in Nepal.
Digital Public Infrastructure: This is key to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for 2030, with a focus on integrating services like the National Identity Card Management System and the Nagarik App for better public outreach.
Creating a Collaborative AI Ecosystem: Public-Private Partnerships
Minister Gurung underscored the importance of a unified public-private partnership model to drive the digital transformation agenda. He called for collaboration among business leaders, educators, policymakers, and investors to create an AI- and ICT-friendly environment in Nepal, saying, “Our goal is to establish Nepal as a leading destination for safe and lucrative IT investments.” With collective efforts, Nepal can build a foundation for AI-driven innovation and technological advancements.
Positioning Nepal for Global Competitiveness
Nepal’s journey to becoming a competitive technology hub involves fostering a skilled workforce, enhancing digital infrastructure, and establishing a secure and attractive investment climate. Minister Gurung highlighted:
Education and Skills Development: Training programs in AI, data science, and machine learning will equip the youth with essential skills for the future.
Cybersecurity and Data Privacy: Ensuring data protection is crucial for global investment, and MOCIT is committed to developing comprehensive policies for cybersecurity and data privacy.
Encouraging Innovation and Startups: Initiatives to support local startups and R&D facilities will catalyze a culture of innovation, creating sustainable economic growth and job opportunities.
A Call to Action: Transforming Nepal’s Future with AI and Robotics
In his closing remarks, Minister Gurung invited all stakeholders to work together toward Nepal’s vision of a technologically advanced society. “To achieve the vision of an advanced ICT ecosystem with AI and beyond, we need the support, ideas, and expertise of everyone in this room and beyond,” he stated, urging attendees to join hands in establishing Nepal as a leader in AI and digital transformation. Minister Gurung emphasized that achieving this vision will create an inclusive digital economy, benefiting every Nepali citizen.
Conclusion: Paving the Way for a Prosperous Nepal
As the conference progresses, it promises to inspire actionable strategies and partnerships that will shape the future of AI and robotics in Nepal. This global event serves as a platform for collaboration, knowledge exchange, and innovation, setting the stage for Nepal’s digital transformation and its rise as a technology hub.
The inaugural session of the International Conference on Artificial Intelligence and Robotics 2024 successfully highlighted the transformative potential of AI, robotics, and ICT for Nepal’s sustainable development. With a shared vision and commitment, Nepal is on the path to becoming a beacon of technological progress and digital prosperity in the region.
For more: Nepal’s AI and Robotics Conference 2024
