KATHMANDU: The Institute of Foreign Affairs (IFA) has organised the closing and research dissemination programme of the ‘Foreign Ministry Summer Fellowship and Internship Programme 2026’.
Welcoming participants, IFA Executive Director Rojina Tamrakar highlighted the objectives and significance of the programme.
She said the initiative provides young researchers and professionals with practical exposure to diplomacy and foreign policy while serving as a bridge between academic research and policymaking.
Tamrakar also stressed the need to develop research findings into useful and practical policy resources.
Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal, the chief guest at the event, praised the contributions of the fellows and interns.
He said research, evidence-based analysis and informed public debate play an important role in strengthening Nepal’s foreign policy.
Khanal encouraged young researchers to closely monitor emerging international developments and contribute to Nepal’s diplomatic practices and policymaking.
20 young researchers participate
The eight-week policy research programme was initiated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and organised by the Institute from June to mid-August.
A total of 20 participants, including 10 fellows and 10 interns, took part in the programme.
They conducted policy research across five thematic areas: strategic affairs and public international law; development and finance; emerging technologies; clean energy; and the Nepali diaspora.
During the final session, participants presented their findings and recommendations on various issues related to Nepal’s foreign policy, diplomacy and international relations.
The closing ceremony was attended by lawmakers, senior officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the British ambassador, diplomats, representatives of research and academic institutions, and development partners.
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