US Ambassador Encourages Collaboration and Talent Exchange at Kathmandu University

Yesterday, the esteemed delegation from the United States Embassy, led by Ambassador Dean R. Thompson, graced Kathmandu University with their presence, marking a significant step towards fostering collaboration and envisioning a prosperous future for Nepal. The visit, which took place on 28 February, aimed to inspire students while exploring avenues for partnership between Kathmandu University and institutions in the United States.

Ambassador Thompson, along with a distinguished delegation including Jane Thompson, Amber Stubblefield, Cultural Affairs Officer Shai Washington, and Rekha Giri, the Alumni Coordinator, engaged in a series of interactions with students, faculty members, and officials of Kathmandu University.

The proceedings commenced with a plenary session at the CV Raman Auditorium, Main Hall, where Ambassador Thompson addressed a gathering of students, faculty, and officials. Associate Prof. Dr. Biraj Singh Thapa initiated the program by showcasing an introductory video highlighting the various facets of Kathmandu University.

During the session, Prof. Dr. Bhola Thapa, the Vice Chancellor of Kathmandu University, extended a warm welcome to the delegation, expressing gratitude for their visit and emphasizing the university’s aspirations to become a globally recognized institution. He also mentioned the recent expansion of academic programs, including the inauguration of the Yogic Science and Wellbeing program in Tirupati, India.

Ambassador Thompson took the opportunity to discuss future prospects, emphasizing the potential for collaboration in green and renewable energy initiatives, as well as the forthcoming launch of a US-Nepal-based artificial intelligence project.

The plenary session concluded with Prof. Dr. Achyut Wagle, the Registrar of Kathmandu University, extending a vote of thanks to the delegation for their insightful contributions.

Following the plenary session, two parallel sessions took place. While Ambassador Thompson and US Alumni convened in Parallel Session II at the Senate Hall, KU students, researchers, faculty, and staff participated in Parallel Session I at the Main Hall.

In Parallel Session II, Ambassador Thompson reiterated the importance of cultural exchange programs and highlighted the opportunities for collaboration between Nepal and the United States. Prof. Dr. Achyut Wagle emphasized the need for a robust network to pursue common interests, particularly in the field of tourism, envisioning a prosperous future for Nepal.

Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Bhola Thapa concluded the session by expressing his eagerness to forge partnerships with US universities, leveraging support from the US government and embassy in Nepal. He emphasized the university’s commitment to providing diverse opportunities for Kathmandu University students, ensuring they remain competitive on the global stage.

The visit underscored the commitment of the US Embassy to strengthen ties with Nepal through educational and research collaborations, paving the way for a prosperous future marked by innovation and cooperation.