The OAE's global network expands to include a new OAE Center in Cyprus and an OAE Node in Nepal
About
OAE Nepal Node (N-OAE) is hosted by Nepal Astronomical Society (NASO) and managed by Suresh Bhattarai and Manisha Dwa, will mainly focus on citizen-science projects in low-tech environments, teacher training programs and training for astronomy Olympiads whilst working to build the OAE’s network of collaborations particularly in the SAARC region and, more generally, with countries facing similar challenges around the globe.
NASO is a not-for-profit organization registered in Nepal with an aim is to create a strong scientific community within the region. It provides a common platform for all astronomy/astrophysics/space science enthusiasts and promotes science & technology via its outreach, education and research activities on astronomy and space science.
Staff list

Manager, OAE Node Nepal ; Team Chair, NAEC Team - Nepal
Based at Nepal Astronomical Society (NASO)
sureshatnepalastronomicalsociety.org
Mr. Suresh Bhattarai is currently working as a chairperson at the Nepal Astronomical Society. He has been an educator, a researcher, and a communicator in astronomy and space science since 2007. Over the years, he has been honored with the SGAC Young Leadership Award and the NAST Science and Technology Promotion Award. His work primarily involves guiding students aged 13 to 25 and teachers/educators in the STEAM, and helping them integrate into the scientific community.

Deputy Manager, OAE Node Nepal ; Team Contact Person, NAEC Team - Nepal
Based at Nepal Astronomical Society (NASO)
manishaatnepalastronomicalsociety.org
Ms. Manisha Dwa is currently working as a project coordinator at the Nepal Astronomical Society(NASO). She has been working in the field of astronomy and space science since 2013. She has received NAST Science and Technology Promotion Award and IAF Emerging Space Leader Award, etc in recognition of her works at NASO in the field of Astronomy and Space Science. She is a PhD Scholar at the Tribhuvan University and the first Amelia Earhart Fellow from Nepal. She received the fellowship in 2024.

Staff, OAE Node Nepal
Based at Nepal Astronomical Society
vision.jaydevatgmail.com
Mr. Jayadev Koirala has been working in the field of design and layout
in Nepal since 2008. Over the years, he has experience working with
different publication houses mainly working for textbooks for both
school and university levels. Currently, he owns a company Vision
Computers, in Kathmandu to share his expertise to the publishing
world. He has been associated with Nepal Astronomical Society (NASO)
since 2009 as a graphic designer and worked on several projects.

Staff, OAE Node Nepal
Ms. Rupa Manandhar has dedicated her career to science education and leadership in Nepal. After earning her B.Sc. and M.Ed. degrees, she served as both a science teacher and headteacher at Panchakanya Secondary School in Chhauni, Kathmandu. Her commitment to making science accessible to young minds is evident through her authorship of six children's science books, which break down complex scientific concepts into engaging, understandable content. Further extending her impact on science literacy, she has translated two science fact books into Nepali, helping to make scientific knowledge more accessible to Nepali-speaking children. Though retired from formal teaching, Ms. Manandhar continues to champion quality science education. Her ongoing dedication to inspiring young learners demonstrates her lasting influence on science education in Nepal, bridging the gap between scientific concepts and young minds through both her teaching and literary contributions.