JUAAN Seminar 2024
JUAAN Seminar Explores Climate Change and Disaster Management
Kathmandu, Nepal — On November 23, 2024, the Japanese Universities Alumni Association, Nepal (JUAAN), organized a compelling seminar titled “Addressing Climate Change and Natural Disasters: Lessons from Japan and Nepal“ at Hotel Royal Singi. This initiative brought together experts to address the urgent issue of climate-induced disasters and explore cross-national strategies for resilience.
Keynote and Highlights
The seminar opened with remarks by JUAAN President Dr. Sunil Babu Shrestha and Chief Guest H.E. Yutaka Kikuta, the Ambassador of Japan to Nepal. A keynote presentation by Dr. Vishnu Pandey, former General Secretary of JUAAN, set the stage with an in-depth analysis of the increasing frequency and severity of water-induced disasters in Nepal and Japan.
Dr. Pandey highlighted significant events, including the 2024 Thame flood and record-breaking rainfall in Nepal, alongside Japan’s advanced disaster response strategies like its “River Basin Disaster Resilience” model. He emphasized the necessity for collaborative learning and action to mitigate climate risks.
Panel Discussion
Moderated by Prof. Dr. Taranidhi Bhattarai, the seminar featured an interactive panel discussion with experts:
- Dr. Indira Kandel: Discussed data-driven insights into escalating climate risks.
- Dr. Prem Paudel: Focused on policy and financing mechanisms addressing climate change.
- Dr. Bal Bahadur Parajuli: Explored preparedness and response bottlenecks.
- Dr. Dinesh Devkota: Addressed institutional challenges in disaster management.
The dialogue underscored the importance of policy coherence, institutional capacity, and international cooperation in adapting to climate challenges.
Impact and Conclusion
The seminar concluded with a vote of thanks by JUAAN Vice President Dr. Hom Nath Chalise, followed by a networking session. Over 35 participants, including policymakers, academics, and practitioners, exchanged ideas on building sustainable and resilient systems to confront the challenges posed by climate change.
This initiative reaffirms JUAAN’s commitment to fostering knowledge-sharing platforms that inspire actionable solutions for a safer, more sustainable future.
