Tribhuvan University,  Central Department of Hydrology and Meteorology (CDHM) in collaboration with  Kathmandu Center for Research and Education (KCRE, TU-CAS), Institute of Research for Development (IRD-France), Alliance of International Science Organizations (ANSO), International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD), and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), has inaugurated a Winter School on "Application of Field and Remote Sensing Techniques for Glacier Studies." The training program is set to run from October 20 to November 22, 2024.

The inaugural session took place on October 21 at the Seminar Hall of the Kathmandu Center for Research and Education in Kirtipur, Kathmandu. The Winter School is designed to provide participants with hands-on experience, combining laboratory work with field practice, focusing on the application of remote sensing and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for glacier studies. The program aims to enhance participants' skills in utilizing modern techniques to study and monitor glaciers, a critical issue in light of climate change.

The event has drawn 30 participants, including 17 from Nepal, 5 from India, 3 from China, 2 each from Pakistan and Bhutan, and 1 from Bangladesh. This diverse group highlights the Winter School’s international outreach and the importance of regional collaboration on environmental studies. The inaugural program was chaired by Prof.Dr.Deepak Aryal,Head of Central Department of of Hydrology and Meteorology. During the Inaugural ceremony Dr. Surendra Gautam, Assistant Dean, Institute of Science and Technology (IOST), Tribhuvan University encouraged all participant to  gain the optimum benefits of this opportunity. He admired the initiation of CDHM for conducting winter school 2024.

Prof. Dr. Ailikun, Director of International Relation, Institute of Tibetan Plateau, CAS China   attended the event as the Special Guest . In her address, she emphasized her commitment to supporting international cooperation in higher education and the importance of mutual collaboration for global progress. She reiterated the need for such initiatives in shaping future leaders and experts in science. She also briefly introduces the role of Kathmandu Center for Research and Education (KCRE,TU-CAS) to explore scientific avenues and continuous support by providing KCRE Excellent Thesis Award for Master's Students.

Dr. Adina Rocoviteanu, Representative from Institute of Research for Development (IRD-France stressed the significance of this program in enhancing research capabilities and scientific expertise within the region. Dr. Sonam Wangchuk  Cryosphere Specialist at ICIMOD emphasized that study of mountain directly touches the lifestyle of the general people. He also urged the importance of climate change study to protect the humankind to a near future.

The welcome speech was delivered by Dr. Binod Dawadi, Associate Professor of the Central Department of Hydrology and Meteorology, and Deputy Director of Kathmandu Center for Research and Education (KCRE,TU-CAS ). Dr. Dawadi highlighted the importance Remote sensing technique  and initiatives in advancing scientific knowledge and fostering collaboration among researchers and institutions. He urged all the participant to focus on learning and transforming experiences. The program's highlights were presented by Dr. Dibas Shrestha, Assistant Professor of the Central Department of Hydrology and Meteorology, who is also a leading member of the Winter School. Dr. Shrestha shed light on the focus of the classes, emphasizing the groundbreaking changes occurring in glaciers and the broader implications for climate change.