Kathmandu, November 5, 2026: The Handong UNESCO UNITWIN SIERA & SOMTU International Conference 2026 successfully concluded in Kathmandu on Thursday, bringing together an international academic platform to explore how artificial intelligence (AI), emerging technologies and social innovation can contribute to a more inclusive, resilient and sustainable future.
Held under the theme “Inclusive and Sustainable Future: Social Innovation in the AI Era,” the conference was organised at Hotel Dusit Princess, Lazimpat, and the School of Management, Tribhuvan University (SOMTU), Kathmandu. The programme was conducted in a hybrid format, enabling both in-person and virtual participation.
A key highlight of the conference was the keynote address by Dr. Gunakar Bhatta, Vice-Chairperson of the National Planning Commission, Government of Nepal. He was announced as a distinguished keynote speaker and delivered an address on “Strengthening Institutions for Inclusive Development in an Era of AI.”
His keynote topic highlighted the importance of strengthening institutional capacity and governance to ensure that technological advancement contributes to inclusive development. As artificial intelligence continues to transform economies, public institutions and societies, strong institutions, responsible policies and inclusive approaches are essential to ensure that the benefits of innovation reach all sections of society.
The conference focused on the opportunities and challenges emerging from the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence and digital technologies, particularly their implications for sustainable development, inclusive economic growth and social transformation.
Key areas of discussion included AI and emerging technologies, sustainability and resilience, inclusive growth, responsible AI governance, and the expanding digital economy and innovation landscape.
The event provided an international platform for academic exchange, research-based discussions and collaboration among universities and institutions, highlighting the importance of connecting technological advancement with human-centred development and social responsibility.
As AI continues to reshape economies, education systems, workplaces and public institutions, discussions on responsible innovation, equitable access to technology and effective governance are becoming increasingly important. Ensuring that technological progress benefits all sections of society, rather than widening existing inequalities, remains a major challenge for policymakers, researchers and development practitioners.
The conference was jointly organised through the collaboration of the School of Management, Tribhuvan University (SOMTU), Handong Global University, UNESCO UNITWIN, the University of the Assumption and the University of Finance and Economics, Mongolia.
The successful conclusion of the conference underscores the growing importance of international academic partnerships and interdisciplinary dialogue in addressing the interconnected challenges of technological transformation, social inclusion and sustainable development.
For Nepal, such international academic engagements offer opportunities to strengthen research collaboration, encourage responsible adoption of AI, and connect technological innovation with national development priorities.
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