KATHMANDU: The Computer Association Nepal (CAN) has submitted a 10-point recommendation to the government for Nepal’s first-ever national Artificial Intelligence (AI) policy.
The suggestions were presented to Minister for Communications and Information Technology, Prithvi Subba Gurung, following a critical study of the concept paper titled Use and Practice of AI in Nepal.
The recommendations, compiled by CAN’s AI Coordinator and Vice President Chiranjivi Adhikari, Prof Dr Sudan Jha, Advocate Diksha Raut, and Ganga Bhandari, highlight the need for a comprehensive AI policy tailored to Nepal’s specific needs.
One of the key suggestions is the inclusion of a clear definition of AI within the Nepali context, as the current concept paper lacks a precise explanation.
CAN also proposed the development of a dictionary containing definitions of technical terms such as AI, machine learning, and data privacy, ensuring clarity for policymakers and stakeholders.
Highlighting the regional applications of AI, the association urged the government to encourage AI adoption in critical sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, and disaster risk management.
It also stressed the importance of multi-sectoral collaboration, calling for active participation from educational institutions, government agencies, private companies, NGOs, and local governments.
In terms of regulation, CAN underscored the need for a robust legal framework and strong data protection policies to safeguard AI-related data. The organization also called for clear guidelines on data management, including aspects such as data cleansing, safety, and privacy.
Another key recommendation was inter-country data sharing, advocating for cross-border collaboration in AI research and implementation. Additionally, CAN emphasized the necessity of establishing Nepal’s own independent and capable data center to ensure data sovereignty.
Investment in AI was another major focus, with CAN recommending financial support for AI development, scholarships for AI education, and the establishment of AI research centers within universities.
Lastly, the association urged the government to prioritize localization by developing AI tools specifically designed for the Nepali language and the country’s unique requirements.
With AI increasingly influencing various sectors worldwide, CAN’s recommendations aim to provide a structured approach for Nepal to develop its AI ecosystem effectively. The government’s response to these proposals is expected to shape the direction of AI policy in the country.
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