Nepali diaspora urged to utilise knowledge and capital in Nepal

KATHMANDU, DECEMBER 29:  The first international convention of the United Nepali Diaspora Organisation (UNDO) commenced yesterday, bringing together representatives from various nations. The diaspora expressed an unwavering commitment to leveraging their skills and capital to drive Nepal's economic growth.

A core principle of UNDO is to unite the Nepali diaspora globally based on equity, cooperation, and inclusivity, with a shared goal of serving Nepal and its people.

Renowned philanthropist and CNN Hero (2010), Anuradha Koirala, urged the diaspora to invest the knowledge and capital acquired abroad in Nepal, fostering a love for the country among future generations.

Former NRNA President Shesh Ghale emphasized the need for the government to create an investment-friendly environment specifically tailored to the Nepali diaspora.

UNDO President Sonam Lama highlighted the organization's mission to connect Nepal with its diaspora and encourage their contributions to sustainable national development. He identified climate change and capital flight as key concerns and emphasized the organization's proactive approach to mitigating these challenges.

The inaugural session delved into the intricate relationship between climate change and migration. Distinguished panelists, including senior journalist Kunda Dixit, immigration expert Dr. Ganesh Gurung, ICIMOD's Dr. Amina Maharjan, and Naresh Sharma from the Ministry of Forests and Environment, discussed the impacts of climate change on migration patterns and the brain drain exacerbated by climate vulnerabilities.

The second session focused on "Innovative Infrastructure and Diaspora," featuring insights from Kulman Ghising, Managing Director of Nepal Electricity Authority, Sushil Babu Dhakal, Joint-Secretary at the Ministry of Physical Infrastructure and Transport, Kuber Nepali, CEO of Public Transport Authority, and energy expert Kushal Gurung. The panellists explored avenues for diaspora support in Nepal's infrastructure and transportation sectors.

The third session, dedicated to "Policy and Partnership," examined policy gaps hindering effective collaboration with the Nepali diaspora. Panellists included Deepak Raj Joshi, CEO of Nepal Tourism Board, legal policy expert Yubaraj Sangroula, Dr. Jitendra Upadhayay Timilsina from McGill University, Canada, and Dr. Indra Adhikari from Policy Research Institute.

The two-day convention, themed "Diaspora Engagement for Sustainable Nepal," is attended by approximately 70 representatives from diverse nations. A significant highlight was the signing of a five-year Memorandum of Understanding between the MIT Group Foundation, which supports research in Nepal's transport sector, and the government. The convention will conclude with the UNDO Annual General Meeting, where new leadership will be elected.