Meet Avinash Gurung: Innovator from Pokhara

Kathmandu: In the serene city of Pokhara, amidst the backdrop of the majestic Himalayas, a young innovator is emerging in technology and innovation. Avinash Gurung, a 19-year-old Bachelor of Science in Information and Technology (BSc. IT) at Infomax College of IT and Management, Pokhara, has been turning heads with his technical projects and passion for research and development.

Avinash’s journey began in the village of Madhyanepal-8, Dadhuwa, Lamjung. From a young age, he was fascinated by the mechanics of how things worked. ‘Since I was very young, around 12 years old, I was always curious about technology and loved taking things apart to see how they functioned,’ he recalled. This curiosity led him to pursue an Intermediate in Agriculture Science at Ishaneshwar Secondary School, Lamjung, where he began to explore the intersection of science and technology.

After completing his +2, his transition to information technology (IT) at Infomax College was driven by his passion for innovation. ‘I realized that IT was the key to unlocking new possibilities in various fields, from software development to robotics. During my ISC studies, I analyzed the agricultural sector and noticed a significant lack of technology. Enhancing agriculture with technology can boost productivity and sustainability. That’s why I chose IT,’ Avinash explained.

Avinash has worked on a variety of science projects. Among his notable achievements is the creation of a solid-fuel rocket model, which he successfully launched. ‘A solid-fuel rocket uses a mixture of fuel and oxidizer packed into a solid cylinder. When ignited, the combustion generates thrust, propelling the rocket. The rocket project was a significant milestone for me. It taught me the importance of precision and perseverance, ‘ he shared.

Another standout project is the Green Air IoT Device, designed to monitor and improve air quality. ‘I wanted to create something that could have a real impact on people’s lives. The Green Air IoT Device is a step towards a healthier environment. This device uses sensors to measure air quality parameters and transmits the data to a central system for analysis, helping to identify and mitigate pollution sources,’ Avinash said. ‘The Internet of Things (IoT) refers to the network of interconnected devices that communicate and exchange data. This technology enables devices to collect and share data, leading to smarter and more efficient systems,’ Avinash explained.

The success of his project, Smart KeyLink System, which integrates home automation with automobile security, showcases his ability to blend practicality with innovation. ‘The idea was to make everyday life more convenient and secure. This system uses smart tags—small devices that can be attached to objects to communicate with other devices—and biometric authentication—using unique biological traits like fingerprints or facial recognition to verify identity—to enhance security and ease of access,’ he added.

At the age of 17, Avinash also built an electric scooter with a budget of NPR 60,000. ‘I designed the frame, sourced the motor and battery, and assembled the components. I applied theoretical knowledge to practical applications, creating an eco-friendly mode of transportation,’ said Avinash.

Avinash’s creativity and problem-solving skills have been pivotal in his success. ‘I believe that creativity is about seeing possibilities where others see obstacles. Meanwhile, innovation requires not only creativity but also problem-solving. Being uniquely creative is essential,’ he noted. His achievements have not gone unnoticed; he was selected to participate in the Young Scientists Summit 2022 in Kathmandu.

‘It was a validation of my hard work and dedication. It motivated me to keep pushing the boundaries of what I can achieve, ‘ he reflected.

Looking ahead, Gurung is eager to continue his journey in research and development, with a focus on IoT, robotics, automotive, and renewable energy technologies. ‘My goal is to create innovations that improve the quality of life and contribute to a sustainable future, ‘ he said.

According to him, among his upcoming projects are a hydro-driver designed to harness water power for mechanical systems; an IoT-based dish maker system that automates dish preparation and cleaning; a supermarket guide robot to assist customers; kids’ tutor robots for interactive learning; a quantum pump (a device that uses principles of quantum mechanics to move particles, such as electrons, through a system in a controlled manner) for better water distribution; and an eco-friendly cooler for greenhouses, which aims to maintain optimal temperatures for plant growth by reducing the dependency on traditional, energy-intensive cooling systems.

There’s also a spy robot bird, a discreet surveillance robot disguised as a bird, designed for security and research purposes. This robot blends seamlessly into natural environments, offering a unique solution for monitoring and observation tasks without drawing attention.

Among his upcoming projects, Avinash believes that the eco-friendly cooler for greenhouses and the IoT-based dishmaker system stand out the most. In his words, the eco-friendly cooler for greenhouses is a game-changer. ‘This project stands out because it addresses the critical need for energy-efficient solutions in agriculture. By maintaining optimal temperatures for plants using sustainable cooling methods, the system keeps the greenhouse temperature between 18-25°C (64-77°F), which is ideal for most plants, promoting eco-friendly practices and having the potential to transform greenhouse operations worldwide.’

Another noteworthy project is the IoT-based Dishmaker System. ‘The Dishmaker System automates dish preparation and cleaning, significantly enhancing kitchen efficiency. It saves time and labor and also integrates smart technology to ensure a seamless cooking experience, making it an essential innovation for modern kitchens, ‘ said Avinash.

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He also has a message for innovators: ‘Stay curious, stay dedicated, and never be afraid to take risks. Innovation is about challenging the status quo and making a difference.’

Avinash credits much of his success to the mentorship of Nirmal Adhikari, his science mentor, who has been a guiding force in his development, providing insights and support that helped shape his projects and vision.

Despite his busy schedule, Avinash finds time to relax and recharge through painting and drawing. ‘It’s a way for me to unwind and find inspiration,’ he shared.

His drive to innovate is fuelled by a desire to make a positive impact. ‘I want to leave a legacy of meaningful contributions to society. Also, I dream of researching Mars. The unique environment of Mars offers countless opportunities for scientific discoveries that could have profound implications for life on Earth, ‘ he concluded.

(Author Jayaraj Kumar Roy Danuwar is a seasoned journalist, communication officer, and researcher with a prolific career in the media industry. He has worked in The Himalayan Times, Nepal’s English Daily Newspaper.)

(Photo Courtesy: Avinash Gurung)