ASOCIO plenary meet bolsters commitment to promote Nepal’s IT industry

KATHMANDU: The Asian-Oceanian Computing Industry Organization (ASOCIO) convened its plenary meeting in Kathmandu on July 13, 2024. 

This significant event brought together representatives from member organisations across the Asia-Oceania region for a day of discussions and updates.

During the meeting, ASOCIO President Brian Shen reaffirmed his commitment to promoting Nepal’s IT industry. He pledged to share a comprehensive policy framework with ASOCIO members, facilitate resource sharing, and actively support investment opportunities within the country. Shen’s dedication aims to enhance Nepal’s IT infrastructure, foster collaboration among member nations, and attract international investments —ultimately accelerating the growth and development of Nepal’s technology sector.

Federation of Computer Association Nepal (CAN Federation) President Ranjeet Kumar Poddar emphasised that this high-level summit served as a significant encouragement for every Nepali, particularly those within Nepal’s vibrant IT community. The event’s purpose is to inspire innovation, foster collaboration, and drive growth within the country’s technology sector.

ASOCIO Summit Coordinator and Immediate Past President (IPP) of CAN Federation, Nawaraj Kunwar, played a pivotal role in bringing this prestigious summit to Nepal. Their efforts underscore a commitment to fostering a prosperous Nepal by expanding the IT industry. By hosting this summit, they aim to showcase Nepal’s immense potential and drive substantial advancements in its technology landscape.

In his welcome remarks, CAN Federation General Secretary Chiranjibi Adhikari highlighted Nepal’s potential to become an outsourcing hub. He pointed out the opportunities in Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) and IT services, emphasising how these sectors could drive economic growth and technological advancement in the nation.

ASOCIO’s Financial Strength and 40th Anniversary Celebration

During the meeting, ASOCIO’s financial health took centre stage. Membership income exceeded half of the budget target, demonstrating the organisation’s robust financial position. To commemorate ASOCIO’s 40th anniversary, a special budget request of $44,000 was proposed. This allocation will fund a commemorative coffee table book and celebratory events, marking four decades of impactful contributions to the computing industry.

Committee Updates and Collaborative Initiatives

Reports from various committees showcased ongoing initiatives across diverse sectors. The Award Committee announced new categories for the 2024 ASOCIO DX Awards, recognising outstanding digital transformation efforts. Meanwhile, the Membership & Global Partner Committee reported on new endorsements and active members, reinforcing ASOCIO’s global network. Other committees — including the Policy Task Force, Smart City, Digital Asia, and ESG Acceleration — provided updates on their activities and upcoming webinars.

Events Calendar and Call for Proposals

The meeting reviewed the remaining 2024 event schedule, highlighting upcoming gatherings in Indonesia, Laos, and Japan. Additionally, ASOCIO issued a call for proposals for events to be held in 2025, encouraging innovative ideas and collaboration.

Global Partnership Introduction

The Australian Joint Committee for Computing in Asia (AJCCA) was introduced as a new Global Partner, furthering ASOCIO's reach and collaboration within the region.

Looking Ahead

The ASOCIO Plenary Meeting in Kathmandu served as a platform to discuss the organization's financial health, upcoming events, and ongoing efforts to promote collaboration and development within the ICT sector across Asia and Oceania.

Kathmandu to Host Smart City Summit Nepal 2025

The CAN Federation announced plans to host the Smart City Summit Nepal 2025, a major event focusing on advancing urban development through technology.

Addressing Urban Challenges

The summit’s agenda includes dedicated sessions on smart city innovation, aimed at tackling pressing urban issues such as transportation, energy efficiency, waste management, and public safety. Attendees can expect insightful case studies and presentations from startups, showcasing successful solutions and inspiring future developments.

Networking and Special Events

Throughout the event, attendees will have ample opportunities for networking. Scheduled coffee breaks, luncheons, an evening reception, and a gala dinner provide ideal settings for connecting with fellow professionals. Additionally, special sessions — including technology demos, startup pitches, and interactive exhibits — will offer hands-on experiences with cutting-edge smart city solutions.

Promoting a Sustainable Future

“The Smart City Summit Nepal 2025 serves as a pivotal platform for fostering collaboration and spotlighting innovations that can revolutionize urban living in Nepal,” emphasised CAN Federation General Secretary Chiranjibi Adhikari. “By harnessing the power of technology, we can effectively address current challenges and pave the way toward a more sustainable future for our cities.”

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