Nepal has the potential to generate more than Rs 100 billion annually by producing skilled human resources in the information technology (IT) sector, according to IT experts. Speaking at a panel discussion organized by the Nepali Congress’s Entrepreneurship and Small and Medium Enterprise Development Department, experts emphasized that even a small investment in the sector could yield significant returns.

The discussion, titled "Entrepreneurship and Human Resource Development: Preparing for the IT Sector," took place on the second day of the Nepal Startup and SME Conference at the Nepali Congress Central Office in Sanepa, Lalitpur.

Sulabh Budhathoki, head of Innovative Nepal Group, stressed the need for investment in developing skilled IT professionals, citing numerous opportunities in the sector. He noted that if Nepal can produce IT talent in line with industry demand, the country could export IT services worth over Rs 100 billion annually.

Speaking at the event, Prof. Dr. Mahanananda Chalise, dean at Tribhuvan University, urged the government to focus on technical education and integrate technical skills into the broader education system. He criticized existing policies for failing to provide clear pathways for students to enter the IT sector.

Mirgendra Karki, executive director of CNAS, highlighted the need to promote domestic products to drive overall economic transformation.

Meanwhile, Bibhushan Bista, founder of Young Innovation, suggested that if the government implemented policies to expand IT education, Nepal could produce five times more IT professionals than at present, significantly boosting IT service exports. He also stressed the importance of incorporating entrepreneurship into education.

Similarly, Karvika Thapa, CEO of Khimbu Tech, emphasized that success comes from choosing a field of interest and working diligently in it.

Urmila Thapaliya, coordinator of the organizing department, expressed confidence that the conference would inspire new and aspiring entrepreneurs. -- RSS