APIGA Nepal 2025: Bridging Global Internet Governance and Youth Leadership
The Asia Pacific Internet Governance Academy (APIGA) Nepal 2025 recently concluded its intensive two-day capacity-building workshop, signaling a significant step forward in Nepal’s digital policy ecosystem. Organized by the Federation of Computer Association Nepal (CAN Federation) in collaboration with ICANN and KISA, the event aimed to cultivate a new generation of Nepalese leaders capable of navigating the complexities of global internet governance.
Strengthening Nepal’s Digital Foundation
As Nepal advances toward a “Digital Nepal” framework, APIGA Nepal 2025 provided tertiary students and young professionals with an in-depth exploration of the multistakeholder model. The program emphasized key areas including ICANN policies, domain name system (DNS) management, and enhanced youth representation in international digital policymaking.
Through a combination of simulation exercises, roundtable discussions, and case studies, the academy successfully bridged the gap between academic understanding and the practicalities of digital governance. Participants gained exposure to the mechanisms that shape global internet policies and how these frameworks can be applied to Nepal’s context.
Keynote Address: Chiranjibi Adhikari Advocates Digital Reform
A central highlight of the academy was the keynote delivered by Chiranjibi Adhikari, Senior Vice President of CAN Federation and a renowned cybersecurity expert. Adhikari emphasized that reforming Nepal’s digital ecosystem must be treated as a national priority to align with evolving global standards.
“To build a resilient internet foundation in Nepal, we must empower our youngsters to perform at the highest levels of governance,” Adhikari stated. “Reforming our digital ecosystem is not just a technical necessity; it is a vital step toward national digital sovereignty.”
A Security-First Approach to Governance
Drawing on his experience as CEO of One Cover Private Limited, Adhikari introduced a security-centric perspective to the discussion. He highlighted that innovation in digital infrastructure must go hand-in-hand with robust cybersecurity measures, advocating for policies that protect data privacy and counter emerging threats.
Participants engaged in practical exercises to understand the intersection of technical cybersecurity measures and international policy frameworks, a skill set increasingly critical for Nepal’s ICT sector. Adhikari underscored that integrating security considerations into policy development ensures resilient and trustworthy digital ecosystems.
Shaping the Next Generation of Leaders
The academy concluded with a pledge to maintain ongoing engagement with the Asia Pacific internet community, fostering a network of APIGA alumni who will lead Nepalese digital policy initiatives. Graduates are expected to represent Nepal in global forums such as ICANN and the Internet Governance Forum (IGF), ensuring the country’s voice is heard on issues of internet governance, cybersecurity, and youth participation.
About CAN Federation and One Cover Private Limited
The Federation of Computer Association Nepal (CAN Federation) serves as the apex body for Nepal’s ICT sector, promoting development, advocacy, and regulation within the industry. Through initiatives like APIGA Nepal, the federation works to bridge global policy insights with local capacity building.
One Cover Private Limited, led by Chiranjibi Adhikari, is a leading Nepalese cybersecurity firm providing services in risk management, security audits, and cyber resilience. The company plays a critical role in supporting Nepal’s transition to a secure and reliable digital infrastructure, demonstrating the practical integration of policy and technology expertise.
