Mahabir Pun is a name synonymous with innovation, perseverance, and a relentless drive to bridge divides—both digital and developmental—in the rugged terrains of Nepal. A scientist, educator, and social entrepreneur, Pun has dedicated his life to transforming the lives of people in some of the most remote and underserved regions of the Himalayas. His journey from a small village boy to a globally recognized innovator is a testament to the power of education, determination, and a vision for change.
At the heart of Pun’s legacy are two groundbreaking initiatives: the Nepal Wireless Networking Project and the National Innovation Center. The former brought the internet to isolated Himalayan villages, connecting them to the world and opening doors to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. The latter, established in 2012, is a nonprofit hub for innovation, fostering research and development in agriculture, energy, and technology to drive Nepal’s economic growth. Together, these initiatives embody Pun’s multifaceted approach to progress—using technology not just to connect but to empower communities to shape their own futures.
This article weaves together Mahabir Pun’s remarkable life with the stories of these two transformative projects, exploring how they intertwine to create a lasting impact on Nepal and beyond.
Early Life and Education: A Foundation of Resilience
Mahabir Pun was born on January 22, 1955, in the small village of Nangi, located in the Myagdi district of western Nepal. Growing up in a mountainous region, Pun’s early years were defined by hardship. The village lacked basic amenities—electricity, running water, and paved roads were nonexistent—and education was a luxury few could afford. Like most children in Nangi, Pun spent his days helping with household chores and tending to livestock. Yet, his father, a retired Gurkha soldier, saw education as a pathway out of poverty. Despite financial struggles, he invested his savings to ensure his son could attend school, a decision that would change the course of Pun’s life.
Pun’s educational journey began modestly. His village school lacked supplies like paper, pencils, or textbooks, so he wrote on a wooden board with a piece of marble. His determination shone through, and after completing primary education, he moved to Chitwan for secondary schooling. Later, his perseverance earned him a partial scholarship to study in the United States. In 1992, he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Science Education from the University of Nebraska at Kearney. After returning to Nepal, he went back to the U.S. to complete a master’s degree in Educational Administration in 2001. This education not only equipped him with knowledge but also ignited a passion to uplift his community—a spark that would soon fuel his groundbreaking initiatives.
The Nepal Wireless Networking Project: Bridging the Digital Divide
When Pun returned to Nangi in 2001, he was confronted by the stark realities of rural Nepal. The lack of communication infrastructure isolated villages like his from the rest of the world. There were no telephone lines, and the nearest city, Pokhara, was a grueling two-day trek away. Determined to bring change, Pun initially focused on establishing a high school in Nangi to improve local education. But he quickly realized that without modern tools—particularly internet access—progress would remain limited.
In 2002, Pun launched the Nepal Wireless Networking Project, an ambitious initiative to connect remote Himalayan villages to the internet using wireless technology. At the time, Wi-Fi was still a novel concept, and the challenges were daunting. The Nepali government had banned Wi-Fi equipment due to security concerns during a period of civil conflict, and the villages lacked electricity and infrastructure. Undeterred, Pun improvised. He collaborated with international volunteers and donors, who provided equipment and expertise. Using handmade TV dish antennas mounted on trees and solar-powered systems, he established a wireless connection between Nangi and a neighboring village.
The project’s success was rapid and transformative. By 2006, Pun had connected 13 mountain communities to the internet, and today, the network spans over 175 villages across 15 districts. The impact has been profound:
- Education: Students in remote areas gained access to online learning resources, leveling the playing field with urban peers.
- Healthcare: Health workers could consult specialists in cities, improving medical care in isolated regions.
- Economic Growth: Villagers began selling products like handicrafts and honey online, boosting local economies.
- Community Engagement: Residents could communicate and collaborate, fostering a sense of connection.
- Pun’s ingenuity turned a seemingly impossible dream into reality, proving that technology could bridge even the widest divides. The Nepal Wireless Networking Project became a cornerstone of his mission, setting the stage for his next ambitious endeavor.
The National Innovation Center: Building a Future of Self-Reliance
While the Nepal Wireless Networking Project connected communities, Pun recognized that connectivity alone wasn’t enough. Nepal needed sustainable solutions to its deeper challenges—poverty, unemployment, and reliance on imported goods. In 2012, he founded the National Innovation Center (Rashtriya Abishkar Kendra), a nonprofit organization aimed at fostering research and development to drive economic growth. The center’s mission was clear: empower Nepalis to create homegrown innovations in agriculture, energy, and technology.
Based in Kathmandu, the National Innovation Center serves as a hub for aspiring inventors and entrepreneurs. It provides resources—tools, mentorship, and funding—to turn ideas into actionable solutions. Some of its standout initiatives include:
- Agricultural Advancements: Developing efficient farming tools and techniques to support rural farmers, who form the backbone of Nepal’s economy.
- Sustainable Energy: Launching projects like a crowdfunding campaign to build a 10 MW hydroelectric facility, reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
- Technological Innovation: Supporting local startups and inventors to address Nepal-specific challenges, from healthcare devices to educational platforms.
- One notable project is Pun’s effort to revive the Birgunj Agricultural Tools Factory. By producing locally made farming equipment, he aims to reduce Nepal’s dependence on imports and create jobs. The center’s work reflects Pun’s belief in self-reliance—a vision of a Nepal that innovates its way to prosperity.
The National Innovation Center builds on the foundation laid by the Nepal Wireless Networking Project. Where the latter provided access, the former empowers communities to leverage that access for long-term growth. Together, they represent Pun’s holistic approach to development: connect, then create.
Personal Life and Global Recognition: The Man Behind the Mission
Amid his tireless work, Mahabir Pun remains a devoted family man. In June 1998, he married Ommaya Pun, and they welcomed their daughter, June Pun, later that year. His family provides a grounding force, balancing his demanding career with personal fulfillment. Pun’s ability to juggle these roles mirrors his knack for managing complex projects with grace and determination.
His efforts have earned him widespread acclaim. Over the years, Pun has received numerous accolades, including:
- Ramon Magsaysay Award (2007): Dubbed Asia’s Nobel Prize, this honor celebrated his community leadership.
- Honorary Doctorate from the University of Nebraska (2007): Recognized his contributions to education and development.
- Internet Hall of Fame (2014): Inducted for expanding internet access in Nepal.
- Ashoka Fellow: Acknowledged his social entrepreneurship.
- Social Innovations Award from the Global Ideas Bank: Honored his use of technology for social good.
- These awards underscore Pun’s global influence, cementing his status as a pioneer in technology-driven development.
A Nationwide Tour and a Lasting Legacy
In recent years, Pun has taken his message on the road, embarking on a nationwide tour across Nepal. Promoting his autobiography, Mahabir Pun: Samjhana, Sapana Ra Abiral Yatra (Memories, Dreams, and Endless Journeys), he has sold thousands of copies and raised funds for projects like the Birgunj factory revival. The tour has inspired countless Nepalis, particularly young innovators, to pursue bold ideas for change.
Mahabir Pun’s legacy is one of perseverance, innovation, and hope. From his humble beginnings in Nangi to his global recognition, he has shown that one person’s vision can transform entire communities. The Nepal Wireless Networking Project and the National Innovation Center stand as twin pillars of his work—connecting the disconnected and fostering a culture of creation. As Nepal navigates its future, Pun’s story remains a beacon, proving that even in the most remote corners of the world, technology and determination can light the way forward.