Kathmandu, November 8
The third Trans-Himalayan Forum on Communication and Social Development kicked off in Kathmandu on Friday, bringing together over 150 scholars and practitioners from nine countries to discuss digital technology, governance, and cross-cultural cooperation across the Himalayan region.
According to a press statement, the three-day event is jointly organized by the University of Electronic Science and Technology of China (UESTC), Kangba TV (China), Tribhuvan University, and Himalaya Television (Nepal) under the theme “Peripheral Digital Communication and Regional Public Governance.”
Participants from China, Nepal, the United States, India, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Japan have submitted more than 60 academic papers. The forum coincides with the 70th anniversary of China-Nepal diplomatic ties and the 75th anniversary of China-India relations.
At the opening ceremony, the “Research Center for Digital and Intelligent Public Governance in the Pan-Himalaya Region” — a joint initiative of UESTC and Tribhuvan University — was officially inaugurated.
Speakers addressed a range of topics including artificial intelligence governance, digital narratives, and women’s empowerment. Professor Manukonda Rabindranath of Jawaharlal Nehru University discussed AI-driven fact-checking tools, while Bhutanese researcher Dawa Penjor presented the “Gelephu Mindfulness City” model. Professor Chen Changfeng of Tsinghua University analyzed how algorithms influence social cognition.
Women’s voices and media representation were also a central theme. Deepika Pant from India highlighted the resilience of Pahari women amid environmental and social changes, while Kangba TV host Qimi Wengmu emphasized the media’s role in amplifying women’s perspectives.
Regional integration was another key focus. Professor Taibur Rahman of the University of Dhaka shared case studies linking Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, and Nepal, while Japanese photojournalist Hiroyuki Torii showcased how visual storytelling can bridge cultural divides. Pakistani scholar Abida Ashraf called for stronger cooperation in the media industry.
Tribhuvan University’s Vice-Chancellor stressed the importance of academic collaboration amid global uncertainties, and UESTC Dean Professor Ding Huang described the forum as a “digital bridge to share knowledge and tackle common challenges.” Professor Han Hong, Director of the Center for Trans-Himalayan Communication Research, proposed a “Seven-Point Initiative” to strengthen regional consensus.
Side events included the “Mysterious Charm of Sichuan · Cultural China” book exhibition and the “Trans-Himalayan Customs” photo exhibition, showcasing the region’s cultural and environmental diversity.
First held in Chengdu in 2018 and later in Kathmandu in 2024, the forum continues to promote academic dialogue and people-to-people exchange among Trans-Himalayan nations.
