Prof. Dr. Suresh Raj Sharma, the founding Vice-Chancellor of Kathmandu University and a visionary in Nepal’s educational landscape, has been honored with the Pioneer ICT Award 2024. This prestigious award recognizes his groundbreaking contributions to initiating computer engineering education in Nepal.

The award was presented during the grand finale of the Indrive ICT Award 2024, supported by Ncell Foundation in association with NepalPay QR, Janus, and Zoom, held on Friday at the Hyatt Regency, Kathmandu. The Pioneer ICT Award is bestowed upon individuals who have made significant and lasting contributions to Nepal's information and communication technology (ICT) sector.

Prof. Dr. Sharma, a name synonymous with pioneering technical education in Nepal, has dedicated his life to advancing the country's educational framework. Born in 1940 in Sindhuli, he pursued a doctorate in Chemistry and played an instrumental role in establishing Nepal’s first-ever computer engineering program in 1994.

As the founding Vice-Chancellor of Kathmandu University, Prof. Dr. Sharma was pivotal in shaping the institution into a hub for technical and higher education. His leadership extended beyond KU, serving as the first Executive Director of the Council for Technical Education and Vocational Training (CTEVT), where he laid the foundation for technical education in Nepal.

Prof. Dr. Sharma’s contributions are not confined to academia. He has actively participated in shaping national education policies and has held key roles in various institutions, including the National Education Committee, the SAARC Technical Committee on Science and Technology, and Tribhuvan University.

This recognition is a witness to his lifelong commitment to education, technology, and innovation in Nepal, inspiring generations to follow in his footsteps.