Nepal’s new science ministry must strengthen scientific capacity

Nepal established a new Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation on June 20, 2026, aiming to bolster the nation's scientific and technological capabilities. This initiative follows a period of underinvestment in research and development, with Nepal's R&D expenditure historically hovering around 0.1% of its GDP, significantly lower than the global average of 2.2%. The new ministry is tasked with developing and implementing national policies to foster innovation, promote scientific research, and integrate technology into various sectors of the economy. Its creation is seen as a crucial step towards addressing the country's developmental challenges through science-led solutions. The ministry's mandate includes enhancing scientific education, supporting researchers, and facilitating the transfer of technology from abroad. A key objective is to bridge the gap between academic research and industrial application, thereby creating a more robust innovation ecosystem. The government has expressed its commitment to increasing R&D funding in the coming years, though specific budgetary allocations have not yet been detailed. This move is anticipated to attract foreign investment in science and technology sectors and encourage the return of Nepali scientists working abroad. The success of the ministry will depend on its ability to secure adequate funding, implement effective policies, and foster collaboration between academia, industry, and government.