The Hult Prize at IOE, Pulchowk Campus, successfully orchestrated a Panel Discussion program on December 29, 2023. Those who missed participating in this insightful panel discussion, a pivotal event by The Hult Prize, showcasing the trajectory of innovation and the profound societal impact entrepreneurs can generate, need not fret. Comprehensive details about the program are provided below.
Jointly organized by the Hult Prize at IOE, Pulchok Campus, and the Kathmandu Valley Leo Club, Pulchowk, the program unfolded on the campus premises, commencing with an invigorating speech by the campus director, Aditya Pandey. Pandey set the tone by elucidating on the theme of this year's Hult Prize, aptly titled 'Unlimited!'. Distinguished social workers and entrepreneurs graced the occasion as esteemed guests, bringing their expertise to animated discussions. Among the noteworthy invitees were Ms. Brinda Bhattacharya representing Astitwa Nepal, Ms. Anukriti Kunwar from Feminist Future Nepal, Ms. Rajya Lakshmi Shakya from FNCCI, and Mr. Sudip Ghimire from NYEF.
Ms. Brinda Bhattacharya initiated the discussions with a succinct overview of Astitwa Nepal and its objectives. Drawing a crucial distinction between acid attacks and acid attack violence, she shed light on the organization's support for those affected by such incidents. Bhattacharya delved into the 'Samavesh' program, highlighting its inclusive services for all societal strata. Emphasizing the prevailing lack of public awareness regarding the treatment of burns caused by fire, electricity, acid, etc., she underscored Astitwa Nepal's efforts in spreading awareness on crucial topics such as general health, gender equality, rehabilitation for abused children, and sensitivity development towards homosexuality.
Anukriti Kunwar, representing Feminist Future Nepal, introduced the organization as a digital entity addressing gender discrimination deeply entrenched in Nepali society. Kunwar expounded on the various facets of feminism and underscored the organization's focus on Dalit feminism in the Nepalese context. She shed light on FFN's initiatives aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, emphasizing the societal challenges surrounding gender and reproductive health education. Notably, FFN's commendable efforts extend beyond breaking societal barriers to fostering awareness on consent, physical rights, and LGBT rights.
The discussion took a business-oriented turn with Ms. Rajya Lakshmi Shakya, representing FNCCI, a renowned business and industry organization. Shakya expressed concerns about the migration of young talent abroad and asserted that the youth would not face such dire situations if adequate employment opportunities were available. FNCCI, in collaboration with the Government of Nepal, has initiated programs to promote local trade, small industries, and employment within the country. Shakya inspired the youth, asserting that the country's wealth lies in its young population, and urged them to contribute to the nation's development by leveraging their talents and energies.
Mr. Sudip Ghimire, representing NYEF, articulated the organization's integration with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and its role in fostering entrepreneurship within society. Ghimire drew parallels with the Hult Prize, highlighting the global reach and impactful role of NYEF in supporting business start-ups, especially in the challenging post-war environment in Nepal.
The panel discussion eloquently addressed the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) championed by the Hult Prize, delving into both obscure and apparent challenges faced by the country in recent years. The engagement was enriched by the presence of an enthusiastic and interactive audience, with queries from the audience being thoughtfully addressed by the esteemed guests. The sponsors of the Hult Prize, namely Protozoa Host, Tasked, and National Commercial Bank, played a pivotal role in amplifying the grandeur of the program.
