Himalayan Climate Boot Camp is a unique initiative to foster nuanced scientific reporting.

A brief pre-departure event was held at Hotel Manaslu, Kathmandu for the members of the Himalayan Climate Boot Camp Project. The event was also attended by former science and Technology minister, Vice-Chancellor of Nepal Academy of Science and Technology, country director of UNESCO among other dignitaries.

Welcoming all the members and participants of the event, Chhatra Karki, team leader of the project and Founding President of Nepal Forum of Science Journalists (NFSJ) stated that this endeavor is a unique initiative to foster nuanced scientific reporting on climate issues in the Himalayas. ‘We should make the boot camp fun filled but equally meaningful at the same time’, remarked Mr. Karki.

In his brief note, Michael Croft, country director of UNESCO expressed his willingness to work in fulfilling critical gaps in science communication with Nepal Forum of Science Journalists and duly appreciated the initiative in materializing the project idea. “This project aligns with what we we at UNESCO have been trying to do particularly to promote sustainable development,’ he further added.

Meanwhile, Dr. Sunil Babu Shrestha, Vice Chancellor of NEPAL Academy of Science and Technology also appreciated the idea of hosting a boot camp at the Everest region amid challenging circumstances. He hoped that the outcomes of the boot camp will be useful for science communication for the general public.

Finally, Dr. Sudip Thakuri, climate scientist and one of the mentors of the boot camp gave a brief orientation to fellow journalists about the basic facts of the Everest region like climate, biodiversity and called upon all of the participants of the boot camp to take this journey as an exciting and equally productive activity. The event was followed by reception dinner. The Boot Camp is going to be held in Everest region from 21 April to 25 April 2022.