Kathmandu University Hosts Hult Prize Semi-Finals at KUSOM, Balkumari
Canadian Study Centre presents Hult prize at Kathmandu University (HPKU) Semi-Finale sponsored by Agni group| Mahindra which took place at KUSOM, Balkumari. The semi finale of the HPKU, 2024 has come to an end with participants pitching their innovative business proposals on the theme “Unlimited” and 5 Teams promoted to the grand finale from a total of 13 teams.
The competition was well- judged by expertise from different fields and made a good assessment for the finalist teams. Anchita Bhimsaria, Head of Learning and Development - IIDE Nepal, is one of the distinguished judges who brought her knowledge and experience in education sectors and upskilling young changemakers to the event. The remarkable Founder and Engineer Researcher at Chyau Bio Technologies, Gunjan Ghimire has been actively working as an entrepreneur and advocator for sustainable solutions. His expertise and insights played a crucial part as the judge. Ruby Shah was also one of the prominent judges for the event. She is the co-founder of Nepal’s first student-led startup ecosystem enabler, Parth Student Ventures which provides seed funding, mentorship and workshops to young entrepreneurs and a Business Development officer at Makkuse. The founder of Karobar App, Samir Phuyal was also an honorary judge for the semi- finale event. He is the owner of Bytecare Technology, which offers clients development services along with creating solutions that uplift and assist Nepali small and medium-sized enterprises.
Kriti Rai and Charchica Pokharel were the EMCEEs of the event, guiding the activities and keeping things lively. The event began with a warm welcome extended to all the esteemed judges, guests, participants, and attendees by Prarabda Singh Mahat, the Deputy Campus Director. Following that, the keynote address was given by Mr. Bikram Basnet, the Chief Guest representing Agni Group | Mahindra. Following those initial proceedings, the pitch session commenced. Participants were given the choice between a Video Pitch or Live Pitch format and a 4-minute Question and Answer (Q&A) round ensued, during which judges posed queries related to the participants' pitches. Each judge was provided with a scorecard to evaluate the pitch accordingly. Additionally, the audience were also engaged by some quizzes with some gifts as a prize. Moreover, the audience was engaged through quizzes, which also included prizes as rewards.
Multiple sponsors and partners have contributed to organizing pre-events and providing participants with essential training beforehand. Additionally, the Hult Prize has forged collaborations with 18 sponsors, encompassing gift partners, a medical partner, hospitality partner, refreshment partner, green partner, study abroad partner, media partners, mobility partner, and pop culture partner.
Following the deliberation, the finalists for the Grand Finale of HPKU - 24 are “Dr. Fish”, “Ladies with a Lamp”, “Hempire”, “The Upcyclers” and “Kodo Ko Khaja”. Wrapping up the event, Campus Director Sasha Sunuwar extended thanks to all involved for making it a success. The Grand Finale is happening on February 27, 2024 at Kathmandu University, Dhulikhel, promising an event of grandeur.
