Up to 300,000 jobs could be created through IT industry in 3 years, says Minister Gurung

KATHMANDU: Minister for Communication and Information Technology, Prithvi Subba Gurung, has announced that up to 300,000 jobs could be created in the next three years through the information technology (IT) industries.

Inaugurating the 'Startup & Idea Fest 2024' organised by Living with ICT in Kathmandu today, Minister Gurung called for private sector support in developing IT industries.

He pledged policy revisions in the first year, followed by budget management and action in the second year. The government will unveil an AI Policy, prepare IT infrastructure, and allocate budgets, Minister Gurung elaborated.

Minister Gurung also committed to developing an IT Park and a Knowledge Park in Kathmandu during his current tenure. He stated that the local government's service delivery system would be made IT-friendly to realise the theme of Digital Nepal.

Chairman of the IT Council, Ajit Kumar Sah, emphasised that the continuity of the government's existing activities in the IT sector could ensure success.

Secretary of the Nepal Academy of Science and Technology (NAST), Rabindra Dhakal, highlighted the need for cooperation with industrial enterprises to help the IT sector flourish and retain the youth population in the country.

Former Minister Ganesh Sah noted the immense potential for Nepal to become an IT hub and address unemployment.

Member of the Nepal Chamber of Commerce (NCC), Pankaj Jalan, Chairman of Living with ICT, Rajan Lamsal, and other speakers called for policy reforms and digital infrastructure development in the country.

The Fest, showcasing innovative acts in the IT sector, will continue until Friday.

By RSS