Embark College Launches Its Inaugural Research Publication: Pioneering a New Era of Sustainability and Financial Inclusion in Nepal

On Sunday, April 27, 2025 (Baisakh 14, 2082), Embark College proudly marked a major milestone with the official launch of its first academic publication, Embark Research Review: Sustainability and Financial Inclusion – Towards a Sustainable Nepal. Held at Hotel Himalaya, Lalitpur, this landmark event brought together a distinguished assembly of thought leaders, policymakers, educators, and business pioneers to celebrate a shared commitment to research-led innovation and inclusive economic development.

The launch event was honored by the presence of several eminent dignitaries, including Professor Dr. Jean-Noël Ezingeard, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Roehampton (UK); Professor Dr. Bishwambhar Pyakurel, one of Nepal’s most respected senior economists; Mr. Asish Thakur, Executive Director and CEO of Embark College; and Dr. Stephen Driver, Academic Principal of Embark College and Pro Vice-Chancellor of the University of Roehampton. Their presence not only reflected Embark College’s strong academic and global partnerships but also its growing influence in shaping education and public discourse in Nepal.

The Embark Research Review features 11 in-depth case studies showcasing the real-world practices of some of Nepal’s most innovative and sustainability-focused businesses. The publication sheds light on how these businesses are navigating the challenges of financial inclusion, environmental responsibility, and inclusive growth-offering valuable insights for policymakers, researchers, educators, and students. This initiative underscores Embark College’s mission to go beyond traditional academics, embedding research and practical knowledge into its core philosophy of empowering NextGen to become skilled innovators and agents of change.

During the event, Professor Dr. Jean-Noël Ezingeard delivered an insightful keynote address, emphasizing the transformative power of academia-industry-government partnerships in driving systemic change. He highlighted the value of transnational education and its ability to deliver global standards locally, particularly through Embark College’s partnership with the University of Roehampton. His message reinforced the critical importance of investing in local educational institutions that can inspire and equip students to address both national and global challenges.

A powerful panel discussion on the theme “Sustainability and Financial Inclusion: Towards a Sustainable Nepal” followed, featuring Professor Dr. Bishwambhar Pyakurel and Sanjib Subba, Founder of Kathmandu Fintek. Their dialogue centered on Nepal’s economic priorities, the urgent need to restructure growth models, and the complex interplay between policy, employment, and inclusive financial access. The panelists called attention to longstanding structural barriers in Nepal’s economy, pointing out how a disconnect between well-crafted monetary policies and actual employment outcomes continues to hinder progress. They stressed that despite having technically sound fiscal tools, Nepal’s inability to implement these in a way that supports job creation and income equality is a major roadblock to sustainable development.

Moreover, the discussion took a critical look at the increasing migration of Nepalese youth seeking opportunities abroad. The panelists argued that unless Nepal undergoes significant constitutional reform, political stabilization, and a revamp of employment policies, the country will continue to lose its young talent. They called on the government and private sector to foster a more inclusive ecosystem that not only provides dignified employment but also gives young people a reason to invest their futures in Nepal.

The event also highlighted Embark College’s long-term vision to position itself as a center of excellence for applied research and policy-driven education. With the success of this first volume, Embark College is already preparing for Volume 2 of the Embark Research Review under the umbrella of the Embark Research Network – an initiative aimed at nurturing a collaborative research culture across academia, industry, and public policy in Nepal.

At its core, the publication and the conversations it inspired represent more than just academic achievements – they mark a call to action. By bringing together leading minds from diverse sectors, Embark College is fostering an environment where research, education, and enterprise intersect to solve Nepal’s most pressing challenges. It is a bold step forward in making education purposeful, practical, and impactful.

The launch of the Embark Research Review is a testament to the College’s deep-rooted belief that sustainable development begins with empowered, informed youth. As Nepal seeks to redefine its development pathway, initiatives like these offer both a blueprint and a beacon for a better future – where innovation is inclusive, policy is people-centric, and education becomes a catalyst for nation-building.

We invite educators, policymakers, students, and changemakers to dive into the insights offered by this landmark publication. Let’s work together to shape a Nepal that thrives – economically, socially, and environmentally.