KATHMANDU: In a culmination of innovation and entrepreneurship, the Hult Prize at Shanker Dev Campus concluded its finale in a grand event at the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) venue.
The event marked a significant collaboration with NTB, highlighting the synergy between academia and the tourism sector in fostering sustainable ventures.
The finale commenced with an invigorating welcome speech by the Campus Director of the Hult Prize, Pooja Sharma, setting the tone for a day of insightful discussions and groundbreaking ideas.
The audience was then graced by the wisdom of the Chief Guest, Leela Mani Paudyal, the Former Chief Secretary of the Government of Nepal, who shared his perspectives on innovation and sustainable development.
A highlight of the event was the keynote speech delivered by Karna Shakya, a name synonymous with entrepreneurship in Nepal.
His words served as a beacon of inspiration for the young minds gathered, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and vision in the entrepreneurial journey.
The panel discussion titled “Sustainable Venture: Pioneering Change for a Better Tomorrow” featured esteemed panelists Bhawani Rana, Chairperson of Sneha Group and Former President of FNCCI; Mani Raj Lamichhane, Director of NTB; and Rajeev Thapa, Partner/Country Manager, Nepal-CDM Smith Inc.
Their dialogue revolved around the challenges and opportunities in creating sustainable ventures that can lead to a better future for all.
The core of the event was the pitching session where the top 5 finalists, selected from a competitive pool of 40 teams, presented their innovative ideas to a distinguished panel of judges.
This panel included Vidushi Rana, Executive Director of Goldstar; Anal Raj Bhattarai, Director of Rastriya Banijya Bank; and Anand Bagaria, Managing Director of NIMBUS.
The presentations were a testament to the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of the students.
The competition concluded with Team Digo emerging as the victors, winning a prize of more than 6 lakhs.
They were closely followed by Team Triaikyam as the first runner-up with nearly 5 lakhs in winnings, and Team SuperSquad as the second runner-up, securing more than 4 lakhs in prizes.
The total prize pool exceeded 15 lakhs, encompassing both cash and in-kind contributions, underscoring the event’s commitment to supporting innovative ventures.
The finale was not just a competition but a gathering of some of Nepal’s most renowned figures, including a special guest, witnessing the next generation of entrepreneurs poised to make a difference.
The successful completion of the Hult Prize at Shanker Dev Campus, in collaboration with the Nepal Tourism Board, marks a milestone in nurturing the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Nepal, paving the way for sustainable ventures that promise a better tomorrow.
Khabarhub is the media partner of Hult Prize Shanker Dev Campus.
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