KATHMANDU, June 1 (Xinhua) — Huawei launched the Seeds for the Future 2024 program in Kathmandu on Friday, marking the fourth consecutive year of the Chinese tech giant’s efforts to aid Nepal’s digital transformation.
This program, co-organized with Nepal’s Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology, invites undergraduate students to participate. Selected top students will receive on-site training and compete in a regional competition in China in September, attending seminars on cutting-edge technological innovation. The top two teams from this round will visit China again for the global finals.
Bishwo Babu Pudasaini, a Nepalese government official, highlighted the program’s significance, stating it provides “a unique platform” for Nepali students to gain insights into advanced technologies, foster cross-cultural understanding, and ignite their entrepreneurial spirit.
Huang Jun, CEO of Huawei Nepal, emphasized the program’s impact, noting, “The experiences and knowledge gained through this program will empower our young talents to become leaders in the digital transformation of Nepal.” He added that these students are “the seeds that will grow into future innovators, entrepreneurs, and tech leaders of the nation.”
Addressing the inauguration, Bishwo Babu Pudasaini stressed the alignment of the program with Nepal’s vision of creating a knowledge-based society.
Michael Croft, UNESCO’s representative to Nepal, praised the program for meeting the country’s development needs and the desires of its youth. UNESCO is a strategic partner in Huawei’s initiative.
Chinese Ambassador to Nepal Chen Song called the Seeds for the Future program “a shining example to nurture young talents and foster innovation.” He highlighted the importance of knowledge-sharing and capacity-building for societal advancement.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by numerous dignitaries, including Bhola Thapa, vice chancellor of Kathmandu University, who appreciated Huawei’s dedication to developing local talents in Nepal. Kathmandu University and Tribhuvan University are collaborating with Huawei on this program.
Launched in Thailand in 2008, Seeds for the Future is Huawei’s flagship corporate social responsibility program. It now covers 140 countries and regions, benefiting over 18,000 students.
“This comprehensive approach aligns with our vision of creating a knowledge-based society,” said Pudasaini. “And it’s the sort of program that the young people are calling for,” added Michael Croft at the ceremony.
The Seeds for the Future program continues to reflect Huawei’s commitment to fostering innovation and nurturing the next generation of tech leaders in Nepal and beyond.
