At the ASOCIO Digital Summit 2024 in Tokyo, Japan, the Nepal Internet Foundation (NIF) was honored with the prestigious ASOCIO 2024 DX Award for its significant contributions to digital innovation and transformation in the Asia-Oceania region. The award recognized NIF’s groundbreaking Everest Community Network (ECN) project, which established the highest community network at an altitude exceeding 4,000 meters in the remote Himalayan villages of Khunde and Khumjung.
The ECN initiative aims to promote eco-tourism, environmental conservation, and digital connectivity by providing reliable Internet access to these isolated communities. Through the ECN project, NIF has had a profound impact on local Sherpa communities, bridging the digital divide by delivering essential digital tools, resources, and techniques that empower these remote settlements.
NIF’s work was particularly highlighted following the devastating flood that struck Thame, a village in Nepal’s Khumbu region, on August 16, 2024. The flood, triggered by the outburst of Thyanbo Glacial Lake, caused severe property damage and disrupted services like electricity and traditional communication systems. Despite power outages and communication system failures, ECN remained operational, facilitating critical real-time communication between officials, emergency services, and affected individuals using alternative solar power. This event underscored the importance of reliable digital infrastructure in disaster-prone areas and demonstrated ECN’s crucial role in disaster response and relief efforts.
The ECN project also stands out for its innovative use of technologies to improve various sectors such as education, healthcare, tourism, Sherpa homestays, digital banking, and community engagement. The initiative has proven the transformative potential of Internet connectivity in rural and mountainous regions, greatly enhancing the quality of life for residents.
NIF’s recognition with the ASOCIO 2024 DX Award in the “Emerging Digital Solutions & Ecosystems” category highlights the significant impact of the ECN project in advancing sustainable digital solutions. ASOCIO, a federation of IT organizations from 24 countries in Asia, annually awards outstanding digital achievements, and NIF’s success demonstrates the global importance of digital transformation in remote areas.
With over 200 organizations nominated this year, NIF’s achievement is a testament to the far-reaching impact of ECN’s technological innovation in creating a more connected and sustainable future for rural communities.
