Kathmandu University hosts Hult Prize Semi-Finals at KUSOM

Kathmandu: Kathmandu University (KU) has successfully hosted the Hult Prize Semi-Finals at KUSOM, Balkumari.

The semi-finale of the HPKU, 2024 has come to an end with participants pitching their innovative business proposal on the theme “Unlimited” and 5 Teams promoted to the grand finale from a total of 13 teams.

Canadian Study Centre presented the Hult prize at the Kathmandu University (HPKU) Semi-Finale. The program was sponsored by Agni Group | Mahindra.

Experts from different fields judged the semi-finals and made a good assessment of 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 the Karobar App, Samir Phuyal was also an honorary judge for the semi-final 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 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 was also engaged by some quizzes with some gifts as a prize. 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, a hospitality partner, a refreshment partner, a green partner, a study abroad partner, a media partner, a mobility partner, and a 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 will be held on February 27, 2024, at Kathmandu University, Dhulikhel, promising an event of grandeur.