Apr 24, Kathmandu - The 'Multidisciplinary International Conference 2026' has been inaugurated at Mid-West University in Birendranagar, Surkhet. The conference is being organized by Mid-West University in collaboration with Birla Global University, India.

The Chief Minister of Karnali Province, Yam Lal Kandel, inaugurated the conference today. During the opening ceremony, Chief Minister Kandel praised the university for organizing the event with the aim of sharing knowledge and experiences on cutting-edge topics to establish itself both nationally and internationally through academic programs.

He emphasized the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and global knowledge exchange on topics such as artificial intelligence, digital transformation, and sustainability for building an inclusive, sustainable, and innovative society. Kandel stated, "Today is the era of knowledge. With the rapid development of information, technology, and innovation, there is a fundamental shift in our society’s education system. Our universities now need to prove themselves as leaders in technology, policy, academia, and professionalism."

Highlighting artificial intelligence as one of the most influential technologies globally, he pointed out its applications in health, education, agriculture, and communication, which are bringing about unprecedented change. However, he also raised concerns about challenges such as privacy, future employment, ethics, and digital divides, emphasizing that complex issues require interdisciplinary approaches.

He further said, "We are at a historic crossroads where science, technology, and human values are being redefined. Artificial intelligence and global transformation have deeply impacted our lifestyle, economy, governance, and social structures. Therefore, interdisciplinary collaboration and debate are essential for building a sustainable future."

The conference is themed ‘Interdisciplinary Synergies for a Sustainable Future in the Age of AI and Digital Transformation.’ It aims to serve as a common platform to connect Nepal's higher education, research culture, international cooperation, regional development, and policy dialogue, according to Vishnu Kumar Khadka, Executive Director of the Planning, Monitoring, and Evaluation Directorate at Mid-West University and a member-secretary of the conference organizing committee.

The conference will span three days, focusing on developing new concepts related to artificial intelligence, digital transformation, and sustainability, analyzing complex issues in education, technology, governance, economy, and society from interdisciplinary perspectives, and fostering international research collaboration and evidence-based policy-making.

Khadka added, "The conference will focus on seven key themes: Agriculture, Environment and Food Security; Education and Human Development; Law, Policy and Good Governance; Management; Economics and Entrepreneurship; Health and Population; Science, Technology, and Engineering; and Social Sciences and Humanities. Over 344 research papers will be presented."

According to Dr. Khadka, the event will feature participation from 21 countries, over 500 delegates, distinguished speakers, roundtable discussions with vice-chancellors, and dialogues on diaspora-related economic entrepreneurship.