CEO Conference 2026 Explores Challenges and Opportunities in Nepal’s Changing Business Environment

Lalitpur, 10 July – Kathmandu University School of Management (KUSOM) successfully organized the CEO Conference 2026 at Royal Tulip Kathmandu, Gwarko, bringing together some of Nepal’s leading business executives, policymakers, entrepreneurs, academicians, industry experts, and students to discuss the country’s evolving business landscape and the future of entrepreneurship.

Held under the theme “Evolving Business Landscape in the Present Context: Managerial and Entrepreneurial Challenges,” the conference served as a platform for meaningful dialogue on the opportunities and challenges facing Nepal’s economy. National Planning Commission Vice-Chairperson Dr. Gunakar Bhatta attended the event as the chief guest, while MAW Group Chairman and Managing Director Vishnu Kumar Agarwal delivered the keynote address, highlighting the importance of adaptability, innovation, artificial intelligence, and digital transformation in building resilient businesses.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Bhatta emphasized the need for stronger public-private collaboration, institutional reforms, and private sector participation in shaping Nepal Vision 2050. KUSOM Dean Prof. Dr. Bijay K.C. encouraged students to develop resilient leadership skills capable of navigating a rapidly changing global business environment.

The conference also featured a presentation on Nepal’s economic outlook by Dr. Siddartha Mainali, followed by a panel discussion involving prominent leaders from the manufacturing, agriculture, finance, women entrepreneurship, and electric mobility sectors. Panelists exchanged views on investment, policy reforms, artificial intelligence, sustainable business practices, women entrepreneurship, SME development, and the country’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.

An interactive Q&A session allowed students and participants to engage directly with industry leaders on issues ranging from startup challenges and investment readiness to career opportunities and climate sustainability.

Former Kathmandu University Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr. Achyut Prasad Wagle called on young entrepreneurs to embrace technology responsibly and pursue innovation with a strong sense of ethics and national responsibility.

According to KUSOM, the conference successfully strengthened collaboration between academia and industry while inspiring students and aspiring entrepreneurs through knowledge sharing, networking, and discussions on leadership, innovation, and sustainable economic growth.