Nepal Development Research Institute (NDRI) participated in the World Cancer Congress (WCC) 2026, organised by the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) in collaboration with the Hong Kong Anti-Cancer Society, from 24 to 26 September 2026 in Hong Kong. The Congress brought together more than 2,500 participants from over 120 countries, representing a broad spectrum of disciplines, including cancer control, public health, research, clinical medicine, policy, civil society and advocacy. The event featured over 300 sessions, including plenary discussions, parallel sessions and specialised side events, providing a global platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration in cancer control.

Dr. Jaya Kumar Gurung, Coordinator of NDRI's Tobacco Control Program, represented NDRI at the Congress and delivered a presentation titled “From Evidence to Action: Countering Tobacco Industry Interference to Reduce NCDs in Nepal.” The presentation highlighted Nepal's experience in generating evidence and translating research findings into policy and advocacy actions to address tobacco industry interference and strengthen tobacco control efforts.

On the sidelines of the Congress, Dr. Gurung held a courtesy meeting with Alexander Wright, Head of Global Policy and Programmes at Cancer Research UK (CRUK), to discuss NDRI’s ongoing tobacco-control initiatives and collaboration. NDRI’s participation, including registration and travel, was fully supported by CRUK. The Congress provided valuable opportunities to strengthen global partnerships, exchange knowledge, and advance tobacco-control research and policy advocacy in Nepal.