National Innovation Centre Hosts Young Scientist Program 2026; Young Scientists Showcase Their Innovations

EDUCAST,  The National Innovation Centre (NIC Nepal)—a non-profit research and innovation organization established by Dr. Mahabir Pun—successfully organized the Young Scientist Program 2026 on Friday at its premises in Kathmandu. The event brought together young scientists, innovators, NIC alumni, well-wishers, and distinguished guests to celebrate scientific creativity and foster innovation among Nepal’s younger generation.

The program commenced with an inspiring welcome address by Sanjay Paudyal, Chief Advisor to Dr. Mahabir Pun in his capacity as the Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation. Paudyal welcomed all the distinguished guests, scientists, and attendees, emphasizing the importance of empowering young minds and outlining strategic vision points for strengthening Nepal’s research infrastructure. Following the opening remarks, young innovators and researchers showcased their ground-breaking initiatives. Key presentations included Dipendra Basnet’s research on Medical Drone Delivery, Sanjay Bahadur Singh’s indigenous healthcare device “Nyano Nani” (Baby Warmer), Prabin Bohara’s Digital Vending Machine, NASA Scientist Rajesh Poudel’s insights on Airborne Measurements, US Scientist Mahesh Pun’s feature on Water Resources Management, and student innovator Binamra Karki’s presentation on youth-driven technological solutions.

Joining virtually from the UK, Hari Krishna Neupane—Senior Principal Engineer at Microsoft, NIC Europe Coordinator, delivered a session focused on “Technology for Impact, Skills, Safety, and Health”. Participating on-site, Hari Karki, who also serves as the Active Director of Friends of NIC-UK, highlighted the strategic necessity of effective branding and product marketing to ensure NIC’s long-term sustainability and fundraising goals. Demonstrating direct support for grassroots research, Karki announced that he would provide a personal laptop to one of the young scientists to help advance their ongoing scientific investigations.

The event was chaired by Dr. Mahabir Pun in his capacity as Chairperson of the National Innovation Centre and Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation. His presence underscored the crucial alignment between national science policy and grassroots technological research, reinforcing NIC’s mission to nurture indigenous talent and build a robust research ecosystem across Nepal. The gathering concluded with closing remarks by NIC General Manager Sanjay Jha, a retired Nepal Army Colonel with extensive administrative leadership, who expressed gratitude to all speakers, guests, alumni, and participants for their dedication to advancing science and innovation.

Event Video

Photos Archive