The Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) welcomed the Prime Minister of Nepal, Mr. K.P. Sharma Oli, to its campus on 3 April 2025. Accompanied by a high-level delegation, including Mr. Dhan Bahadur Oli, Ambassador of Nepal to Thailand, the Prime Minister reaffirmed Nepal's longstanding ties with AIT and pledged USD 100,000 in support of its academic mission.
In a special address to the AIT community, Prime Minister Oli praised the six-decade-long partnership between Nepal and AIT, emphasizing shared goals of sustainable development, human capital growth, and regional collaboration. He highlighted the key role that academic institutions like AIT play in driving innovation and shaping inclusive, sustainable futures.
The Prime Minister was warmly received by Dr. Subin Pinkayan, former Foreign Minister of Thailand, Dr. Anat Arbhabhirama, Chairman of the AIT Board of Trustees, and Prof. Pai-Chi Li, President of AIT.
Dr. Anat commended the Prime Minister's visionary leadership, stating that Nepal's commitment to development aligns closely with AIT's mission. He reaffirmed the Institute's dedication to advancing prosperity across Asia through education, research, and innovation.
AIT President Li expressed appreciation for Nepal's continued support, including the 2019 donation, the Nepal Local Currency Fund, and the newly pledged USD 100,000. He welcomed the opportunity to deepen collaboration, including the proposed AIT Center in Nepal. "This renewed commitment reflects the strength of our long-standing partnership, and we look forward to advancing our shared goals in sustainable development and regional progress," President Li said.
In his address, Prime Minister Oli recognized the impact of AIT's contributions to Nepal's development across critical sectors such as infrastructure, information technology, natural resources, and policymaking. He underscored the transformative role played by AIT's Nepali alumni, who continue to shape Nepal's progress.
"Our national goal of 'Prosperous Nepal, Happy Nepali' reflects our commitment to building a future where all citizens can live with dignity, security, and opportunity," Prime Minister Oli said. "Institutions like AIT, with their focus on education and innovation, are important partners in this journey."
The Prime Minister commended AIT's inclusive and multinational character, emphasizing Nepal's long-standing emotional and institutional ties with the Institute, including its representation on the AIT Board of Trustees since 1981. Addressing pressing global challenges, he called for collective action to build a more just, secure, and sustainable future, recognizing AIT as a key partner in these efforts.
Reflecting on the significance of the visit, Ambassador Dhan Bahadur Oli, also an esteemed member of the AIT Board of Trustees stated, "The Prime Minister's visit marks a major milestone in the 67-year history of Nepal-Thailand relations. It reflects Nepal's deep commitment to academic cooperation and paves the way for joint efforts to empower researchers and students across the region."
This visit underscores the depth of the Nepal-AIT relationship, rooted in decades of academic exchange, research partnerships, and capacity building. To date, AIT has produced 1,795 Nepali alumni?many of whom are leaders in their fields. A thriving Nepali community continues to enrich the Institute, including 181 current students, seven faculty members, and 27 staff.
AIT's collaboration with Nepal includes partnerships with universities, research centers, and industries, alongside impactful initiatives in infrastructure safety, air quality, climate resilience, sustainability, gender equality, and capacity development.
Delivering the vote of thanks, Mr. Utkarsh Poudel, President of AIT Nepali Community, expressed heartfelt appreciation: "The Prime Minister's presence today inspires us deeply. It motivates the Nepali student community at AIT to strive for excellence and contribute meaningfully to Nepal's development."
Prof. Sangam Shrestha, Dean of the School of Engineering and Technology and Co-Director of the Global Water & Sanitation Centre (GWSC), added in his closing remarks, "AIT is honored to support Nepal's human capital development and remains committed to advancing academic and research partnerships. We are sincerely grateful for the Prime Minister's generous support, which will further expand scholarships and initiatives benefiting Nepal."
This marks the Prime Minister's second visit to AIT, following his first in 2007 as Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister. The delegation included senior government officials and representatives from leading Nepali institutions and the private sector. The event also welcomed Ms. Chonvipat Changtrakul, Minister Counsellor from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand.
The visit marks a historic milestone in Nepal-AIT cooperation, celebrating decades of partnership and reemphasizing a shared commitment to advancing regional collaboration and sustainable development.