Young, gifted and Nepali

Young, gifted and Nepali

If you search the terms “Nepali youth” or “नेपाली युवा” on Google, the narrative becomes clear: dissatisfaction, frustration, and a lack of infrastructural and systemic support. Consequently, many young people see no option but to leave the country in search of better opportunities.

अग्निपथः नेपाल-भारत सम्बन्धको विरासत 'जोखिममा', नेपाली युवा भर्तीको आसमा - BBC News

वैदेशिक रोजगारीमा जाने युवा बढेको बढ्यै - नागरिक

These are the headlines that dominate news streams, painting a grim picture. 

Historically, young people have led significant global movements and progress. With innovative ideas, expanded internet access, and a drive for a better world, this is an even greater possibility today. In my own life, I am continually inspired by the students I teach at King’s College Nepal and my colleagues at Daayitwa Abhiyaan. However, conversations often reveal a deep fear about Nepal's future and the potential loss of youth contributions.

Since 2020, youth unemployment in Nepal has ranged between 20% and 24%, currently at 22.7% (World Bank). This reflects a tragic reality: educated and skilled youth struggle to find work, driving them abroad. Youth engagement in the economy is low, while outward migration is high. The economic stability of many households relies heavily on remittances, which increased to 76.8% of all households in 2022-2023, accounting for about 25% of the national GDP in 2023 (Kathmandu Post). 

त्यसो भए नेपाली युवाहरुको लागी के छ त नेपालमा? What economic opportunities can Nepal offer its young people?

This is not a question I can answer yet. As someone raised abroad, a मनको नेपाली, I am still trying to figure out how young people think, integrate into the economy, and what motivates movements. What I have seen first-hand and can assert with certainty is that there is no shortage of talent, skills and even drive in Nepali youth. At the same time, Nepal is currently experiencing a “youth bulge,” with about 40% of the population between 16 and 40 years old. In this critical time, the government must prioritize supporting and empowering young people.

When governments truly listen to the voices of youth and embrace their progressive ideas, they can unlock the full potential of economic growth. Promoting startups, a focus of my research, is just one avenue to address this issue. Yet, it is essential to create multiple pathways for income generation, igniting a sense of responsibility, passion, and confidence in young people to remain and thrive in Nepal. No longer should they be forced to choose, directly or indirectly, between their personal growth and the prosperity of their nation. With the right public policies and a visible commitment from the government, their personal ambitions and the country's development can flourish hand in hand.

Blog Post by Astha Guragain, Daayitwa Public Policy Fellow 2024