Successful Completion of the 15th CREEW Research Grant Program’s Proposal Presentation

Kathmandu, Nepal – 25 January 2024 (11 Magh 2080)

 The Centre of Research for Environment, Energy, and Water (CREEW) continued its decade-long commitment to fostering academic growth and knowledge by successfully conducting the Research Proposal Presentation of the 15th CREEW Research Grant Program. Held at the Royal Empire Boutique Hotel in Baluwatar, Kathmandu, the event gathered esteemed experts, setting the stage for years of dedicated research efforts as grantees unveiled their proposals for prospective projects in the field of water and environmental studies.

Chaired by Dr. Sangam Shrestha, Advisor to the CREEW Research Grant Program and Professor & Dean of School of Engineering and Technology at the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) in Thailand, the program attracted distinguished individuals from the academic and research communities. Notable attendees included Dr. Dhundi Raj Pathak, President of CREEW; Dr. Shankar Shrestha, Executive Director at Nepal Development Research Institute; Dr. Sanjiv Neupane, Chief Executive Officer at Smartphones for Water Nepal; Dr. Manisha Maharjan, Visiting Researcher at CREEW; Dr. Rabin Malla, Executive Director of CREEW, and Er. Gautam Rajkarnakar. Dr. Ramesh Raj Pant, Dr. Bhupendra Das and Dr. Deep Narayan Shah with their distinguished presence represented the event as supervisor of three grantees.

The program commenced with a warm welcome from Ms. Samikshya Baral, the event’s Master of Ceremonies, followed by opening and welcome remarks by Dr. Dhundi Raj Pathak, President of CREEW. This was seamlessly followed by an introductory round involving grantee, supervisors, distinguished guests, CREEW Executive Committee Members, General Members, Associated Experts, and the dedicated CREEW Staff Members. Dr. Sangam Shrestha, acting as the Session Chair, skillfully set the stage for the day’s proceedings, establishing an atmosphere of engagement and enthusiasm. Dr. Saurav KC, Deputy Executive Director of CREEW, skillfully moderated the event, ensuring a smooth flow of presentations and discussions.

This batch of researchers, funded by CREEW, explored various thematic areas, presenting their innovative proposals:

1. Ms. Elisha Ghimire

– Assessing River Health and the Effects of Livelihood Dependency on the Endangered Mahseers (Tor putitora) in Karnali, Nepal

– Affiliation: Golden Gate International College (Affiliated to Tribhuvan University)

2. Ms. Rabina Mishra

– Title: Groundwater Resources of Spring Line and its Utilization, Morang, Eastern Nepal

– Affiliation: Central Department of Geology (CDG), Tribhuvan University

3. Ms. Pragya Ghimire

– Title: Estimation of Greenhouse Gas Emission and Harmful Pollutants from Solid Waste Burning in Kathmandu Metropolitan City of Nepal

– Affiliation: Khwopa College (Affiliated to Tribhuvan University)

4. Mr. Sagar Sitaula

– Title: Chemical Characterization and Spatiotemporal Distribution of Microplastics Pollution in the Surface Water of Arun River Basin, Central Himalayas, Nepal

– Affiliation: Central Department of Environmental Science, Tribhuvan University

5. Ms. Sarita Pokhrel

– Title: Assessment of Aquatic Health and Water Stress in Natural Springs of Lalitpur District, Nepal

– Affiliation: Central Department of Environmental Science, Tribhuvan University

6. Ms. Tila Pahari

– Title: Hydrogeological Condition Assessment of Punyamata River Watershed, Kavrepalanchowk District, Central Nepal

– Affiliation: Central Department of Geology (CDG), Tribhuvan University

Post presentations, lively discussions ensued among grantees, supervisors, CREEW Executive Members, CREEW general members, and associated experts shaping the trajectory for impactful and high-quality research outcomes. The grantee students gratefully acknowledged the valuable insights and feedback.

The event culminated with closing remarks from Dr. Sangam Shrestha, Professor & Dean of the School of Engineering and Technology at the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) in Thailand, who serves as the Advisor to the CREEW Research Grant Program. Dr. Shrestha extended heartfelt congratulations to the grantees for their outstanding efforts in presenting their proposals and their attempt at addressing critical environmental and water-related challenges.

The 15^th CREEW Research Grant Program, though in its early stages with the Proposal Presentation, has already showcased its commitment to initiating research and fostering knowledge in the fields of environment, and water. The program strives to leave a lasting impact on Nepal’s academic landscape. The future holds promise as these budding researchers embark on the next phases of their research endeavors, guided by their passion to contribute positively to society.