By AIT Public Affairs
28 January 2025: The Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) and the Confederation of Nepalese Industries (CNI) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on 27 January 2025 to enhance collaboration in developing and implementing an Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) framework for stakeholders in Nepal. This partnership aims to promote sustainability, entrepreneurship, and innovation through a series of joint initiatives.
The scope of the MoU encompasses diverse activities, including supporting start-ups and entrepreneurship through mentorship and training, developing ESG frameworks, providing ESG-related training in Nepal and abroad, and designing curricula for ESG diploma and postgraduate courses. Additionally, the collaboration will focus on knowledge exchange, joint research and development (R&D) efforts, project development, event organization, and fostering a vibrant culture of entrepreneurship.
Speaking at the event, AIT President Prof. Pai-Chi Li emphasized the importance of strengthening ties with the private sector. “AIT is actively enhancing our engagement with the private sector, creating concrete opportunities for collaboration. This agreement will open new doors for our students, offering more internships, job placements, and broader opportunities. I hope this partnership will create a meaningful impact for both institutions and serve the wider community,” he remarked.
Mr. Birendra Raj Pandey, Senior Vice President of CNI, highlighted the MoU’s potential to drive positive change. “CNI is committed to fostering industry transformation, aligning with global priorities like sustainability and innovation. This MoU marks a significant step forward in harnessing AIT’s resources and expertise to shape a better future. Together, we look forward to creating impactful opportunities and deepening our engagement for years to come,” he said.
From CNI, Mr. Pandey was accompanied by Mr. Ghanashyam Ojha, PhD, Director General of CNI. Representing AIT were Dr. Bindu Lohani, Chancellor of University of Nepal, AIT Board of Trustees member, and Former ADB Vice President; Prof. Nitin K. Tripathi, Acting Vice President for Academic Affairs; Prof. Sangam Shrestha, Dean of the School of Engineering and Technology (SET) and Co-Director of the GWSC; Prof. P. Abdul Salam, Dean of the School of Environment, Resources, and Development (SERD); Mr. Voravate Chonlasin, Executive Director of AIT Extension; Mr. Karma Rana, Institute Secretary; Dr. Sumana Shrestha, Director of International Affairs at Office of International and Public Affairs (OIPA); Mr. Sanjeet Amatya, Director of Public Affairs at the OIPA and Dr. Bahul Shrestha, Program Specialist at AIT Extension.
About CNI
The Confederation of Nepalese Industries (CNI), established in 2002, is a top-tier industry group that is led by professionals and focuses on the manufacturing and service sectors. Its membership is made up of a broad range of big corporations, blue-chip companies, joint ventures, and other businesses from various sectors including manufacturing, infrastructure and construction, information and communication, finance, insurance, hospitality, utilities, etc. As an apex body of the private sector, it aims to promote the industry, involving in promoting the socio-economic development of Nepal through private sector-led economic growth.
