Nepal, being relatively new to the world of technology, its history dates back to several decades ago. The era of technology started in Nepal with the arrival of second generation IBM 1401 Mainframe computers which were primarily used for census calculation. Few decades after, Mercantile Computers was established and with it, came the internet. Though the development of technology is accelerating, it still isn’t enough to catch up to other nations.
As it currently stands, Nepal can be placed among countries like Liberia, Ethiopia, Somalia, etc. in terms of technology. And the major force holding Nepal down is the lack of electricity, followed by unstable government, lack of exposure, awareness and simply ignorance. Even though the current state of ICT in Nepal isn’t acceptable, there has been some promises for the bright future.
Currently, there are many technological establishments in Nepal the trend only seems to be growing. Different software and IT companies are starting to make an impact on global scale and well as many students of engineering are inspired to establish their own business startups. Currently there are over 20 ISPs in Nepal and about 6 telecom companies which shows a promising future for internet and mobile network connections.
Nepal is also improving in the technological gadget field. Smartphone, laptop and tablet users of Nepal have access to latest hardware and software to stay up to date and the number of authorized dealers are also increasing. Almost everyone with access to internet has a Facebook account now, and the general public are also engaged in other social platforms such as youtube, twitter, instagram, viber, and so on. The youths of Nepal now are also interested in money making through the internet. Some of the websites and apps designed by Nepal are gaining popularity in the international market.
In the near future, Nepal can expect a remarkable change in the field of technology and hope to finally be amongst the developed countries in terms of technological development. In the field of mobile networks, 4G LTE will arrive at the end of this year. Also, with Google’s and Facebook’s plan to distribute free internet with upto 3G speed across the world, Nepal can benefit a lot. The government has also announced plans for digitized national ID and electronic voting system. In the sector of education, many websites are present to provide the students with study materials, courses, tutorials and references.
Most of the offices throughout the nation have electronic attendance system. Almost all business and organizations now have a website, so in the near future, all information will be digitized and will be easier to access. Also, when the constitution is drafted, if it is drafted, it can be expected to bring changes in the field of technology along with other infrastructures. The ISPs present in Nepal will provide cheaper and faster internet connections if they continue the current pace. And finally, the general public will contribute the most in technological development in Nepal in the near future. From toddlers, only few years old to adults and even elderly are learning to use internet, mobile phones and other technical gadgets. So, in the near future, the necessity as well as desire for technology among the general public will be the main force driving Nepal to a successful future in the field of ICT.
Slow and steady steps in the right direction are enough to bring greatness ahead. And even if the current status is relatively poor compared to others, the ongoing efforts in the field of ICT seem to promise a somewhat bright future in Nepal.
