They say the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. For me, that step was the local APIGA Nepal workshop here in Kathmandu. It opened my eyes to the world of Internet Governance (IG).

But my journey isn’t finished. My sights are now set on the next level: the Asia Pacific Internet Governance Academy (APIGA) in South Korea.

This isn’t just about a travel opportunity. It’s about bridging the gap between local understanding and regional reality. Here is why this goal matters to me—and more importantly, what it would mean for the students I teach.

1. The Need for Comparative Perspective

Participating in local events gave me the context of Nepal’s digital landscape—our bandwidth constraints, our policy gaps, and our unique geography.

However, I realize I am missing the Comparative Perspective.

  • How do our policy challenges compare to those in Vietnam or Fiji?
  • What are other developing nations doing to solve the digital divide?

Getting selected for the regional APIGA would allow me to sit in a room with emerging leaders from 20+ countries. It would transform my understanding from “How Nepal works” to “How the Asia-Pacific region works.”

2. The Multiplier Effect: Bringing It Back to the Classroom

As a teacher and mentor, I don’t learn for myself alone. I learn to teach.

If I get the chance to attend APIGA Korea, every session I attend, every debate I witness, and every simulation I participate in will come back with me to Kathmandu.

  • Real-World Examples: Instead of teaching theory, I can share real stories of how regional policies are negotiated.
  • Better Curriculum: I can update my training materials with the latest insights on AI governance and cyber-security from a regional expert level.
  • Inspiration: I want to show my students that a career in digital policy is accessible to them, not just to people in the West.

3. Representing Nepalese Voices

The internet is global, but it is often governed by voices from the developed world. Nepal needs more representation at these tables.

By aiming for the regional stage, I hope to be a voice for our specific challenges—landlocked connectivity, localized content needs, and the youth perspective from the Himalayas.

Validating the Pathway

Organizations like ICANN and KISA invest in this pathway (Local -> Regional -> Global) because they need leaders who are ready.

I am treating every local engagement as preparation. I am refining my understanding, asking questions, and preparing myself so that when (not if) I make it to that regional stage, I can make the most of it.

To my students and fellow professionals: Dream bigger. Start local, but always keep your eyes on the global horizon.