Oct 01, Kathmandu - A cybersecurity competition aimed at developing skilled professionals in the field will be held in Butwal under the name Nepal CyberShield 2026.

Organized by the Rotaract Club of Lumbini Stars, the competition will give students, young people and others interested in information technology a chance to test their practical cybersecurity knowledge and technical skills. Participants will tackle security challenges, identify system vulnerabilities and retrieve designated flags.

The event will take place in two stages. The online qualifying round is scheduled for Asoj 17. Participants will be assessed on their responses to cybersecurity questions and challenges, with the top 10 teams advancing to the final round, organizers said.

The final will be held in Butwal in Kartik. Teams will be required to protect their own systems while identifying vulnerabilities in rival teams’ systems and solving challenges. Organizers say the format is designed to connect theoretical knowledge with hands-on practice.

Participants may compete individually or in teams of two to four. Students, young people and IT professionals with an interest in cybersecurity and information technology are eligible. The competition will offer prizes worth a total of Rs 250,000.

Program coordinator Sandesh Acharya said the event aims to help young people develop their cybersecurity interests and skills through practical experience. He said participants would have the opportunity to apply their knowledge and gain experience addressing real-world security challenges.

Club president Adhish Dhakal said the competition could encourage young people to pursue cybersecurity as the use of digital technology continues to grow. Club secretary Samir Pandey added that the event would allow participants to assess their abilities, learn about new technologies and security practices, and exchange ideas with others who share their interests.

Interested participants can register through the Rotaract Club of Lumbini Stars’ website.