Kathmandu, Nov. 7
The third Trans-Himalayan Forum on Communication and
Social Development opened in Kathmandu on Friday, organised by the University
of Electronic Science and Technology of China (UESTC), Kangba TV (China),
Tribhuvan University (Nepal), and Himalaya Television (Nepal).
The event, held under the theme ‘Peripheral Digital
Communication and Regional Public Governance’, aims to address common
challenges through digital innovation and regional collaboration.
The forum draws attention to the increasing importance
of strengthening cooperation among Trans-Himalayan nations in light of complex
global dynamics. These countries, sharing geographical and cultural ties, face
challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, water security, and
sustainable development, the organisers said in a statement.
The forum seeks to use digital tools and academic
dialogue to develop practical solutions and promote regional stability.
Over 150 scholars and practitioners from nine
countries, including China, Nepal, the USA, India, Bhutan, Bangladesh,
Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Japan, are participating in the forum. The event,
which received more than 60 academic papers, coincides with the 70th
anniversary of China-Nepal diplomatic relations and the 75th anniversary of
China-India ties, adding historical context to the discussions.
A key highlight of the forum was the awarding of the ‘Research
Centre for Digital and Intelligent Public Governance in the Pan-Himalaya Region’,
a collaborative academic institution established by UESTC and TU.
The forum featured keynote addresses on regional
issues. Professor Manukonda Rabindranath from Jawaharlal Nehru University
(India) discussed AI-driven fact-checking tools, while Dawa Penjor from Bhutan
presented the ‘Gelephu Mindfulness City’ model.
Likewise, Professor Chen Changfeng from Tsinghua
University explored the impact of algorithms on societal cognition. Women’s
empowerment also emerged as a key theme, with speakers such as Deepika Pant
from India and Qimi Wengmu from Kangba TV highlighting the role of women in
regional resilience and media.
Experts called for greater regional integration as well
as the role of the media in bridging cultures. The Vice-Chancellor of the TU
Prof. Dr. Deepak Kharel emphasised the importance of evidence-based academic
exchanges in light of shifting geopolitical dynamics.
The programme also featured book exhibition on China’s
development practices and photo exhibition documenting the region’s customs and
landscapes, contributing to cultural exchange. The forum marks the third in a
series of Trans-Himalayan Forums, continuing efforts to strengthen academic and
people-to-people connections across the region.
Published in The Rising Nepal daily on 8 November 2025.
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