Nepal AOTS - ICOSA Joint Seminar on Role of SMEs in National Development

The Seminar on the "Role of SMEs in National Development," jointly organized by Nepal AOTS and the International Cooperation Organization for Small and Medium Enterprises in Asia (ICOSA), successfully concluded in hybrid mode at Hotel Malla in Kathmandu.

Approximately 50 physical participants attended from various SMEs and related organizations, including the Federation of Nepali Cottage and Small Industries – FNCSI, Federation of Women Entrepreneurs' Associations of Nepal - FWEAN, Nepal Chamber of Commerce, Embassy of Japan, Nepal AOTS, and ICOSA Members, while international attendees joined via Zoom.

The seminar, expertly moderated by Mr. Ramesh Man Singh, Advisor to the Nepal AOTS Alumni Society, featured a comprehensive program. Highlights included a welcome session by Mr. Prashant Lal Shrestha, President of Nepal AOTS, followed by insightful experiences shared by ICOSA Team Members, including industry leaders such as Mr. Yamamoto Kuniyoshi (President of a company facilitating financing to SMEs), Mr. Saito Teruo (Lawyer of international business), Ms. Kawanami Toshiko (Director, ICOSA/AOTS lecturer on leadership training), Prof. Wada Masatake (Former METI officer, Professor, and Researcher on Industrial Policy), Mr. Nomizu Toshio (Chairman of a company selling stainless steel bars), and Mr. Sato Masafumi (Secretary General, ICOSA, and former Managing Director of AOTS, Japan).

The presentations covered diverse topics, ranging from the establishment and growth of AOTS, Japan, to the critical role of SMEs in Japan's industrial development and job satisfaction. Prof. Dr. Kurose Naohiro, President of ICOSA, delivered a special presentation on "The Role of SMEs in Japan's Industrial Development and Job Satisfaction within SMEs," while Prof. Dinesh Chapagain, Advisor to the Nepal AOTS Alumni Society, presented a Nepalese perspective titled "Nepalese Business Environment and SMEs, Offering Historical Perspectives and Insights into Existing Opportunities."

The seminar concluded with a vibrant Q&A session, facilitated by interpreters Ms. Amira Dali, Advisor - Nepal AOTS, and Ms. Yuki Naomi, a wrap-up by the moderator, and a gracious vote of thanks from Mr. Sato Masafumi, Secretary General of ICOSA.

This collaborative effort provided valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities faced by SMEs in the context of national development. The seminar was held on November 30, 2023, and Nepal AOTS extends its sincere gratitude to all participants, speakers, and supporters who contributed to the success of this seminar.