Internet Society recognizes Pun’s role in bringing the Internet to
Nepal, increasing digital literacy and education access for the rural
Himalayan region
[Toronto, Canada] -- The Internet Society today announced that its
prestigious Jonathan B. Postel Service Award was presented to Mahabir
Pun for his key role in bringing the Internet to rural Nepal with the
founding of the Nepal Wireless Networking Project. Pun was selected by
an international award committee,
comprised of former Jonathan B. Postel award winners,
which placed particular emphasis on candidates who have supported and
enabled others in addition to their own specific actions.
In 2002, Mr. Pun’s goal was to connect the people of only a few
villages of Nepal by bringing the Internet to rural schools. Faced with
many obstacles, Mr. Pun had to build a wireless network in the remote
Himalayan region using Wi-Fi, which was an emerging technology at the
time. In addition, he had to contend with the government of Nepal’s ban
on the importation and use of wireless equipment because of fighting
between Maoist rebels and government forces. He was also confronted with
the fact that many of the villages did not have roads, electricity, and
phone lines, and had never seen computers. In spite of these
difficulties, by 2013, Mr. Pun helped connect more than 175 remote
villages in 15 districts of Nepal. Today, these communities are all
benefiting from the Internet, with e-learning, e-healthcare,
communication, and local e-commerce.
“Mahabir Pun has made a tremendous contribution to Nepal, with
profound implications for the people of that region now and in the
future,” said Kathy Brown, President and Chief Executive Officer of the
Internet Society. “He faced unfathomable challenges, and this award is a
testament to his dedication, fortitude and courage in helping to
connect his country to the world.”
The Postel Award was established by the Internet Society to honor individuals or organizations that,
like Jon Postel,
have made outstanding contributions in service to the data
communications community. The award is focused on sustained and
substantial technical contributions, service to the community, and
leadership.
The Internet Society presented the award, including a US$20,000
honorarium and a crystal engraved globe, during the 90th meeting of the
Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) held in Toronto, Canada, 20 July –
25 July 2014.
About the Internet SocietyThe Internet Society
(www.internetsociety.org) is the trusted independent source for Internet
information and thought leadership around the world. It is also the
organizational home for the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF). With
its principled vision, substantial technological foundation and its
global presence, the Internet Society promotes open dialogue on Internet
policy, technology, and future development among users, companies,
governments, and other organizations. Working with its members and
Chapters around the world, the Internet Society enables the continued
evolution and growth of the Internet for everyone.
Source:
http://www.internetsociety.org
