On 21 July 2026, the Honorable Minister for Science, Technology and Innovation, Mr. Mahabir Pun, visited Kathmandu University, where he met with the university leadership to discuss strengthening collaboration in research, technology, and innovation. During the meeting, Minister Pun commended Kathmandu University for its distinctive approach to higher education, noting that the University stands apart from other institutions in Nepal through its strong commitment to research, innovation, applied science, and practical problem-solving. He also appreciated the University's ongoing contributions to advancing science, technology, innovation, and applied research for national development.

During the discussion, Registrar Prof. Dr. Rajeev Shrestha highlighted Kathmandu University's continuous efforts to foster a vibrant research and innovation ecosystem. He shared the University's ongoing initiatives in interdisciplinary research, applied science, technology development, innovation, entrepreneurship, and industry collaboration, emphasizing KU's commitment to translating research into practical solutions that address national priorities and societal needs. In response, Minister Pun reiterated that the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation remains fully committed to supporting impactful research and innovative projects. He encouraged the University to come forward with concrete ideas and practical innovations, stressing that meaningful progress is driven by action rather than discussion and that a results-oriented approach is essential for national development.

As part of the visit, Minister Pun toured the Kathmandu University–Nepal Technology Innovation Center (KU-NTIC), where he was briefed on ongoing research, technology development, innovation, entrepreneurship, and technology commercialization initiatives. He also visited the Department of Pharmacy, where he observed its academic, research, and laboratory facilities and interacted with Master of Pharmacy students, encouraging them to pursue innovative research and contribute to solving real-world challenges through science, applied research, and technology. The visit reflected the shared commitment of the Ministry and Kathmandu University to further strengthening collaboration in research, innovation, applied science, and technological advancement, reinforcing KU's role as one of Nepal's leading institutions in driving innovation for sustainable national development.