Minister Pun talks with TDC team on IT investment, innovation, employment

By TRN Online, Kathmandu, Oct 5: Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Mahabir Pun held a discussion on enhancing Nepal's IT sector with delegation of a US-based IT company, TOKMA Digital Corporation (TDC).

The meeting focused on attracting foreign direct investment (FDI) to Nepal’s information technology sector, creating employment opportunities for Nepali professionals, fostering innovation, strengthening technology education and positioning Nepal as a competitive technology and innovation destination in South Asia.

The US-based IT company delegation was led by Dr. Kumar Gurung, CEO of the TDC, Nebraska, USA. The delegation included four other members of the TOKMA leadership team.

The discussion aimed at advancing Nepal’s digital economy and strengthening international technology collaboration, according to a press note issued by the TDC.

During the meeting, Dr. Gurung formally introduced TOKMA – One Stop Services, an innovative digital platform designed to connect customers with trusted service providers through a single application. Guided by the slogan, “Everything you need, just one tap away,” the platform aims to simplify access to a broad range of services while creating an integrated digital ecosystem for customers and service providers.

The following is the part of the press note of the TDC:

Nepal at the Center of TOKMA’s Global Vision

Dr. Gurung emphasized that although Tokma Digital Corporation is headquartered in the United States, Nepal remains central to the company’s long-term vision and development strategy. He noted that the majority of TOKMA’s current workforce is based in Nepal, demonstrating the company’s commitment to investing in local talent and creating meaningful professional opportunities for Nepali citizens.

The TOKMA leadership outlined a broader vision in which Nepal could develop into an important technology development and operational hub capable of producing globally competitive digital products and services. The company plans to continue expanding opportunities in software engineering, IT services, digital marketing, customer support, operations management and other high-demand professional sectors.

“We believe Nepal has the talent, determination and innovative capacity needed to compete globally. Our goal is to create opportunities that allow Nepali professionals to participate in the global digital economy without having to leave their homeland,” Dr. Gurung said during the discussion.

Challenges Facing IT Investment in Nepal

A major portion of the meeting was devoted to challenges affecting foreign investment and the development of Nepal’s technology sector. The TOKMA delegation emphasized that Nepal has significant potential to attract international technology investment, but improvements in administrative efficiency, regulatory clarity, workforce development and digital infrastructure could substantially strengthen the country’s competitiveness.

Administrative delays were identified as one of the major concerns for foreign investors. The delegation cited the experience of Tokma Technologies Pvt. Ltd., which required approximately six months to complete its FDI approval process. The TOKMA leadership suggested that a modernized and fully digital approval mechanism could significantly reduce processing times and provide international investors with greater confidence and predictability.

Transparency and good governance were also discussed as essential components of an investment-friendly environment. The delegation emphasized that transparent digital processes, clearly defined procedures and strong accountability mechanisms could help reduce opportunities for unofficial payments while improving investor confidence in Nepal.

Another major issue raised during the meeting was the availability and retention of highly skilled IT professionals. Although Nepal has a growing population of talented young technology professionals, many skilled workers seek opportunities abroad because of higher salaries, career prospects and access to advanced technology industries. The delegation stressed the importance of expanding high-quality IT education, creating competitive employment opportunities within Nepal and strengthening cooperation between universities and private technology companies.

The discussion also addressed the gap between academic curricula and the practical skills demanded by the technology industry. Participants emphasized that university programs should place greater importance on hands-on learning, internships, industry partnerships, project-based education and exposure to emerging technologies. Such reforms could help graduates transition more effectively from academic institutions into professional technology careers.