Banking News – Lord Buddha Education Foundation, Nepal’s first IT college, has launched MBA in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Digital Leadership programs to meet the growing demand for AI and digital transformation skills.

The new programs are offered in affiliation with the Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU), with approval from Nepal’s Ministry of Education and equivalency from Tribhuvan University, according to Foundation Chairman Engineer Pankaj Jalan. The foundation has partnered with DLA Consulting to deliver the programs.

Speaking at the launch event, Jalan said that AI has evolved beyond being a technology of the future and has become an essential tool across banking, business, management, data analytics, report generation, and everyday office operations.

“Tasks that once required hours of human effort can now be completed by AI within minutes. Our goal is not only to teach students how AI works but also how to effectively apply AI tools in business, management, and real-world decision-making,” he said.

Jalan added that the curriculum focuses on practical AI applications rather than solely developing AI software, enabling students to integrate existing AI technologies into business operations and strategic management.

During the event, Executive Director Prakash Kejriwal presented a paper highlighting the current landscape and future potential of artificial intelligence and information technology.

The foundation also announced plans to establish a physical AI server laboratory by importing dedicated AI servers into Nepal. The lab is expected to provide students with affordable, hands-on experience in AI experimentation, testing, and research on locally hosted infrastructure.

According to the foundation, students enrolled in the programs will also gain access to 11 international online laboratories, research papers, academic journals, and digital learning resources, strengthening both practical and research-oriented AI education.

Speaking at the event, DLA Consulting Founder and Chairman Suman Neupane said artificial intelligence has become a strategic component of organizational decision-making rather than merely an information technology tool.

“We are not simply introducing another academic degree in Kathmandu. We are laying the foundation for developing Nepal’s future business leaders through an internationally recognized AI-focused curriculum,” Neupane said.

He further emphasized that the information technology sector has become one of the most important drivers of Nepal’s economic development, making AI education increasingly critical for the country’s future workforce and business ecosystem.