Lalitpur, May 9

The International Conference on “Science and Technology Information Management System: Practices and Experiences” concluded at Hotel View Bhrikuti in Godawari, Lalitpur. This key outcome sets out a shared vision for strengthening science and technology information systems across developing nations. 

The three-day conference, held from May 7 to 9,  was inaugurated by Raghuji Pant, Minister for Education, Science and Technology, which was jointly organized by the Nepal Academy of Science and Technology (NAST) and the Centre for Science and Technology of the Non-Aligned and Other Developing Countries (NAM S&T Centre), New Delhi.

The event brought together 110 participants from Egypt, India, Indonesia, Kenya, Mauritius, Myanmar, Nepal, and Pakistan. Attendees included government officials, researchers, academics, and professionals from fields such as information technology, data science, and science communication.

Throughout the conference, delegates explored challenges and opportunities in managing S&T information, especially in low-resource environments. Discussions included issues such as building reliable data systems, improving data governance, ensuring equitable access to scientific knowledge, incorporating emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and big data, and enhancing the security of information systems. Support for early-career researchers and the role of open access and international collaboration were also emphasized as vital elements of progress.

Minister Prithvi Subba Gurung who attended the conference for the closing ceremony underlined the importance of technology in national progress. In his address, he stated, “Information systems are the engine of development and affirmed the government’s commitment to supporting research and innovation in this field.” 

He also extended an invitation to international partners to explore opportunities in Nepal’s growing science and technology sector.

The event featured five keynote speakers along with one special invited speaker, nine research papers from NAM member countries, 16 from Nepal, and 10 poster presentations regarding S&T.