Kathmandu, March 20

The first humanoid robot will be visiting Nepal to address a workshop in Kathmandu as a part of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals in Asia-Pacific focusing on innovation.

The first non-human champion for innovation, Sophia, will address a conference on the theme ‘Technology for Public Services’ in Durbarmarg tomorrow. The programme is being organised by the United Nations Development Programme.

According to a press statement issued by the UNDP today, the aim of the conference is to help Nepal find ways to better use technology and innovation for advancing development. “This conference will showcase to Nepal’s leaders and development actors some of the possibilities that technology can offer in helping them achieve the development vision they have for the country and the provinces,” read the statement.

“The conference will bring together speakers and participants representing central, provincial and local governments, the private sector, civil society, youth, academia and the media, allowing them an opportunity to learn and share ideas, experiences and lessons on technology for development,” added the statement.

The event will be followed by presentations from selected experts and innovators in the areas of inclusive economic growth, democratic governance and resilience.

Sophia, who is now a citizen of Saudi Arabia, is the most advanced robot with artificial intelligence.