The ‘Multidisciplinary International Conference 2026,’ hosted by Mid-West University, has successfully concluded. The conference commenced on April 24 (Baisakh 11) to establish the Karnali region as an intellectual roadmap of possibilities.
According to Dr. Yadu Prasad Gyawali, Executive Director of the University's International Relations Directorate and Coordinator of the Conference Management Committee, a significant achievement of the event was bringing research culture, academic dialogue, and stakeholder partnerships together onto a single national and international platform.
The conference yielded several key strategic outcomes, including the establishment of a ‘Diaspora Liaison Office’ for regular collaboration with the Nepali diaspora and the launch of a ‘Digital Herbarium and Wellness Tourism Initiative’ to utilize Karnali’s rich biodiversity. Additionally, the conference proposed developing AI tools in local languages to preserve cultural and linguistic heritage, implementing a ‘Green Campus Roadmap’ for eco-friendly universities, and establishing a strong monitoring and evaluation system to ensure tangible results.
Dr. Bishnu Kumar Khadka, Executive Director of the Planning, Development, and Monitoring Directorate, emphasized that the conference served as a vital step in transforming academic discussions into solid commitments. He noted that true progress stems from technology guided by human values and global knowledge integrated with local intelligence.
A core message highlighted during the event was the ‘paradox of the digital divide,’ stressing that while digital tools are necessary, there must be a guarantee that citizens in remote areas are not left behind. The conference concluded that digital progress should reduce inequality rather than increase it. The event called for continuous collaboration, investment, and practical action in Karnali. Dr. Gyawali further mentioned that the event prioritized policies regarding human values, entrepreneurship, and the role of migrants in economic transformation, with the ultimate goal of restoring Karnali as an international research network, a hub for policy recommendations, and a center of knowledge.
