Dr. Mahabir Pun, a respected scientist, social activist, and founder of the National Innovation Center, has been appointed as the new Minister of Education, Science, and Technology.

Until recently, Pun had been traveling across Nepal to raise funds for establishing an agricultural tools factory in Birgunj. By selling his autobiography, he generated financial resources to support the National Innovation Center, which has been driving research and innovation across multiple fields. During his campaign, he sold more than 240,000 copies of his book in 45 districts within 526 days, and he had planned to continue sales in the eastern hilly districts after Tihar.

Coincidentally, while still engaged in this fundraising initiative, Pun was appointed minister under Nepal’s newly formed interim government, led by former Chief Justice Sushila Karki. This government was formed after the Gen Z uprising brought down the coalition government of KP Oli. Pun has already taken his oath of office and assumed his new responsibilities.

Early Life and Education

Born on January 23, 1955 (Magh 9, 2011 BS) in Nangi, Myagdi, Pun studied in his village up to grade 7. While many of his peers dropped out, he pursued education despite financial challenges, completing grade 12 and spending nearly 12 years as a teacher. Later, he earned a scholarship to study in the United States, completing his undergraduate degree at the University of Nebraska at Kearney.

Contributions to Nepal

After returning to Nepal in 1992 (2049 BS), Pun dedicated himself to improving education, technology, and rural livelihoods. His notable contributions include:

• Wireless internet in rural areas to connect remote communities.

• Telemedicine and health posts to improve rural healthcare.

• Agrotourism and financial management initiatives to strengthen local economies.

• Encouraging innovation and entrepreneurship through the National Innovation Center, which supports research in over 20 areas, including drones, biomedical devices, agriculture, and education.

Recognition and Awards

Mahabir Pun’s dedication has been acknowledged nationally and internationally. He received the 2007 Ramon Magsaysay Award, was inducted into the Internet Hall of Fame, and honored with the Overall Social Innovation Award. In Nepal, he was awarded the Bhawan Kirti Ratna Award in 2023 (2079 BS), along with a cash prize of one crore rupees. He also holds an honorary doctorate from the University of Nebraska.

A Different Kind of Minister

Despite his achievements, Pun is known for his humility and straightforward nature. Following his appointment, he requested the public not to call or congratulate him with ceremonial scarves. Instead, he urged everyone to share practical ideas and plans for what could be achieved in education, science, and technology during his five-month tenure. With his characteristic humor, he even suggested people could call him the “Scrap Scientist Minister” rather than addressing him formally.

Mahabir Pun’s appointment has generated optimism among the public, as many believe his hands-on experience, innovation-driven mindset, and grassroots work could bring much-needed change to Nepal’s education and technology sectors.