On a sunny day in Bangkok, Thailand, on April 3rd, 2025, the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) rolled out the red carpet for a very special guest—none other than the Prime Minister of Nepal, Mr. K.P. Sharma Oli. Accompanied by his entourage of high-level dignitaries, including Nepal’s Ambassador to Thailand, Mr. Dhan Bahadur Oli, the Prime Minister made waves with a generous pledge of USD 100,000 to bolster AIT’s academic initiatives.
In a stirring address to the AIT family, Prime Minister Oli waxed lyrical about the six-decade alliance between Nepal and AIT. He underscored how both entities unite over shared missions: sustainable development, nurturing human resources, and fostering regional partnerships. The Prime Minister paid tribute to the academic powerhouse like AIT for spearheading innovation and crafting an inclusive roadmap to sustainable tomorrows.
Greeting him with open arms were influential figures including Dr. Subin Pinkayan, Thailand’s former Foreign Minister; Dr. Anat Arbhabhirama, the steadfast Chairman of AIT’s Board of Trustees; and the ever-forward-thinking President of AIT, Prof. Pai-Chi Li.
Dr. Anat lavished praise on Prime Minister Oli’s far-seeing leadership, observing how Nepal’s developmental aspirations harmonize perfectly with AIT’s mission. He pledged AIT’s ongoing commitment to enrich Asia, one scholarly pursuit at a time, through its dedication to education, research, and groundbreaking projects.
President Li expressed heartfelt gratitude for Nepal’s unwavering support, reminiscing about the 2019 donation and the Nepal Local Currency Fund, applauding the fresh promise of USD 100,000. With an eye on the horizons, he eagerly welcomed deeper collaboration prospects, including a proposed AIT Center in Nepal. “This newfound commitment is a testament to our enduring partnership, and we look forward to propelling our collective vision for sustainable development and regional advancement,” shared President Li.
The Prime Minister took the opportunity to spotlight AIT’s impactful contributions to Nepal’s strides in pivotal arenas—spanning infrastructure, IT, natural resources, and policy craftsmanship. He spotlighted the game-changing influence of AIT’s Nepali alumni, who are at the helm of Nepal’s evolving narrative.
“Our national aspiration, ‘Prosperous Nepal, Happy Nepali,’ epitomizes our promise to forge a future where dignity, security, and opportunity are shared luxuries,” asserted Prime Minister Oli. “Institutions like AIT are indispensable allies on this quest, with their educational and innovative clout.” He celebrated the inclusive, multinational fabric of AIT, underscoring Nepal’s enduring emotional and institutional bonds with the Institute, marked by Board of Trustees representation since the realm of 1981.
Towards the close of his speech, the Prime Minister underscored the urgency of tackling pressing global challenges, advocating for unified action to mold a just, fortified, and sustainable world, with AIT as a pivotal partner on this trailblazing path.
Reflecting on the occasion’s gravitas, Ambassador Dhan Bahadur Oli, an esteemed member of the AIT Board of Trustees, proclaimed, “The Prime Minister’s visit carves a significant chapter in the 67-year saga of Nepal–Thailand relations. It incarnates Nepal’s fervent dedication to educational synergies, setting the stage for joint ventures that empower scholars and thinkers across the region.”
The visit heralded a new zenith in the Nepal–AIT narrative, rooted in decades of scholarly mingling, research cooperatives, and capacity fortification. AIT proudly boasts 1,795 Nepali alumni—many luminaries in their domains. A vibrant Nepali cohort continues to elevate the Institute, comprising 181 current students, seven faculty members, and 27 staff.
AIT’s synergy with Nepal encompasses collaborations spanning universities, research strongholds, and industry giants, along with initiatives making waves in infrastructure safety, air purity, climate resilience, sustainability endeavors, gender equality, and capacity cultivation.
Delivering a heartfelt vote of thanks, Mr. Utkarsh Poudel, President of AIT’s Nepali Community, shared earnest gratitude: “The Prime Minister’s presence today fills us with inspiration. It propels the Nepali student community at AIT to excel and contribute their finest to Nepal’s ascent.”
Prof. Sangam Shrestha, Dean of the School of Engineering and Technology and Co-Director of the Global Water & Sanitation Centre (GWSC), added with enthusiasm, “AIT is privileged to support Nepal’s human capital evolution and remains steadfast in fostering academic and research affiliations. We are deeply thankful for the Prime Minister’s benevolent support, which will amplify scholarships and initiatives flourishing myriads in Nepal.”
This momentous visit marked Prime Minister Oli’s second to AIT, harkening back to his debut engagement in 2007 as Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister. The delegation was graced by senior government heavyweights and delegates from pioneering Nepali entities and the private circle. The event also warmly welcomed Ms. Chonvipat Changtrakul, Minister Counsellor from Thailand’s Foreign Affairs Ministry.
The gala underscores a historic watermark in Nepal–AIT alliance, celebrating perennial partnerships and reiterating a shared manifesto to propel regional cooperation and sustainable evolution.
For further details, reach out to:
Nathinee Buakod (PR Officer)
Public Affairs, Office of International and Public Affairs
Asian Institute of Technology (AIT)
Tel: (+66) 02 524 5433
Mobile: (+66) 061 547 8235
Email: [email protected]
It’s great to see Nepal focusing on education. This donation could really help strengthen academic ties in the region.
While it’s a nice gesture, I wonder how much tangible impact this will actually have.
True, but every bit counts when it comes to fostering international collaboration and education.
The symbolic value is what’s important. It sets a precedent for others.
Exactly! Education is the backbone of development. This can really help those 181 Nepali students at AIT.
K.P. Sharma Oli is more than a politician; he’s proving to be a visionary statesman. This initiative might inspire other countries too.
I hope you’re right, Linda. What we really need is significant investment in Nepal’s internal education systems first.
Absolutely, internal development is crucial too. But external collaborations are vital for rapid progress.
Isn’t this just a way to divert attention from his government’s internal issues? I’ve read criticisms about how he’s handling things back home.
To me, this is less about the money and more about strengthening geopolitical alliances.
Exactly, Kathy. Soft power moves like these are often underestimated.
Nepal could use more allies in academia given the growing global tensions.
100k isn’t a big amount, but it’s strategic. Nepal’s future depends on good international relationships.
Hope this leads to improved infrastructure in Nepal. Education can spark progress in so many areas!
I find it amusing that they think this is a ‘transformative’ pledge. It seems tiny compared to the issues at hand.
Small ripples can indeed lead to big waves, Chris.
This news is a source of pride for us Nepalis. My brother is at AIT, so I stand by this initiative.
I feel the same, Prakash! Let’s hope this fosters more scholarships and opportunities.
I don’t see how this helps the common Nepali citizen struggling with basic needs.
Jonathan, progress isn’t just material. Education uplifts entire communities.
Fair point, but we must balance this with immediate needs as well.
AIT’s work on sustainable development aligns well with Nepal’s needs. This partnership could be very fruitful.
Sustainability is key for the future, and these steps are significant even if small.
Soft diplomacy at its best. Nepal is strengthening its academic sectors while building ties.
Having 1,795 Nepali alumni at AIT is a huge asset. I wonder if this could be a model for other countries.
It absolutely could be! Collaboration is essential in our interconnected world.
This alliance allows both AIT and Nepal to leverage each other’s strengths and innovate further.
I hope this ignites more research projects involving Nepali academics. We have so much untapped potential.