The Asia Pacific Internet Governance Academy (APIGA) Nepal 2025 successfully concluded its intensive two-day capacity-building workshop, marking a pivotal moment for Nepal’s digital policy landscape. Organized by the Federation of Computer Association Nepal (CAN Federation) in collaboration with ICANN and KISA, the event focused on nurturing a new generation of Nepalese leaders equipped to navigate the complexities of global internet governance.
Strengthening the Digital Foundation
As Nepal moves toward a “Digital Nepal” framework, APIGA Nepal 2025 provided tertiary students and young professionals with a deep dive into the multistakeholder model. The curriculum covered critical pillars including ICANN policies, DNS management, and enhanced youth representation in international policy-making. The academy effectively bridged the gap between academic theory and the practicalities of professional policy development through simulation games and roundtable discussions.
Keynote: Chiranjibi Adhikari Calls for National Priority on Policy Reform
A highlight of the academy was the keynote address by Chiranjibi Adhikari, the Senior Vice President of the CAN Federation and a renowned cybersecurity expert. Adhikari emphasized that reforming the digital ecosystem must be treated as a national priority to match evolving global standards.
“To build a resilient Internet foundation in Nepal, we must empower our youngsters to perform at the highest levels of governance,” stated Adhikari. “Reforming our digital ecosystem is not just a technical necessity; it is a vital step toward national digital sovereignty.”
A Security-First Governance Approach
As the CEO of One Cover Private Limited, Adhikari brought a unique “security lens” to the governance discussion. He argued that innovation must be balanced with rigorous cyber resilience, urging participants to analyze policy through a framework that protects data privacy and combats emerging threats. Attendees engaged in hands-on exercises to master the intersection of technical cybersecurity and international policy—a skill set increasingly demanded in the Nepalese ICT sector.
Shaping Future Leaders
The workshop concluded with a commitment to maintaining an ongoing connection with the Asia Pacific internet community. Participants, now part of the APIGA alumni network, are expected to lead future digital policy campaigns, ensuring that Nepalese voices are heard in global forums such as ICANN and the Internet Governance Forum (IGF).
About CAN Federation: The Federation of Computer Association Nepal (CAN Federation) is the apex body for the ICT sector in Nepal, dedicated to the development, promotion, and regulation of the information technology industry through advocacy, education, and strategic partnerships.
About One Cover Private Limited: One Cover is a leading cybersecurity firm in Nepal providing specialized services in risk management, security audits, and cyber resilience, headed by industry veteran Chiranjibi Adhikari.