Kathmandu: The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) launched its Regional AI Report titled “The Next Great Divergence” in Nepal, bringing together government leaders, innovators, and young technologists to discuss the opportunities and challenges of artificial intelligence in the country.
At the event, participants explored whether AI can help close Nepal’s development gaps or risk widening them. Six pitches from a diverse group of innovators, including students, early-career professionals, and established practitioners, showcased AI solutions in areas such as justice, health, agriculture, language, employment, and inclusive governance, highlighting that Nepal’s AI future depends on choices made today.
Speaking on the occasion, UNDP Nepal Resident Representative Kyoko Yokosuka stressed that as AI advances, protections must keep pace to ensure systems are safe, transparent, and accountable. She emphasized the importance of risk-based AI governance, equitable inclusion of affected communities, and strengthening basic foundations such as reliable electricity, internet access, data protection laws, and digital payment systems.
Yokosuka said that despite challenges related to geography, connectivity, and data readiness, Nepal is already seeing innovation, including AI-enabled public service chatbots that are improving access and reducing administrative bottlenecks. She commended the Government of Nepal for establishing key governance frameworks, including the National AI Policy and the AI Regulatory Council, and reaffirmed UNDP’s commitment to supporting Nepal in ensuring that AI advances human development.
