Kathmandu, April 6, 2025 — The 11th Graduate Conference of the Himalayan Knowledge Conclave (HKC) 2025 officially began yesterday at Nepal Open University in Kathmandu, bringing together graduates, scholars, faculty, and experts from across Nepal for two days of academic engagement and collaboration. The conference, taking place from April 5–6, 2025 (Chaitra 23–24, 2081 BS), serves as a major platform for emerging researchers to present their work, exchange ideas, and contribute to shaping Nepal’s sustainable future.
Since its inception in 2015, the annual HKC has become a cornerstone of Nepal’s academic calendar. Organized through a consortium formed by the Central Department of Environmental Science, Institute of Science and Technology, Tribhuvan University (CDES-IOST-TU), Resources Himalaya Foundation (RHF), and Institute for Social and Environmental Transition-Nepal (ISET-N), the conference aims to strengthen the country’s research ecosystem. This year’s event is led by Nepal Open University in collaboration with other academic institutions and stakeholders, with generous support from the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology (MoEST).
In her opening message, Prof. Shilu Manandhar Bajracharya, PhD, Vice Chancellor of Nepal Open University, welcomed participants and encouraged them to take full advantage of this platform to showcase their research and engage in critical discussions. "Your presence and active involvement will not only enhance the academic discourse but also contribute meaningfully to the country's development journey," she said.
The conference arrives at a critical time when Nepal’s research environment continues to face significant challenges, including fragmented research practices, limited funding, and a lack of platforms for public engagement. The HKC seeks to bridge these gaps by encouraging young researchers to engage deeply with pressing social, environmental, and policy issues. It also fosters collaboration across institutions and promotes knowledge-sharing that extends beyond academia into public and policy spheres.
As the second and final day of the conference unfolds, participants are expected to present groundbreaking research and engage in dialogues that will inform future policies and development strategies. The event continues to highlight the role of academic excellence, innovation, and collaboration in building a knowledge-driven Nepal.
Ecosphere News will follow up with key outcomes and insights from the concluding sessions.
