NEPALGUNJ, Feb 25: Amid growing youth migration for better opportunities abroad, speakers at an event in Nepalgunj on Monday emphasized that ample opportunities exist within Nepal. They, however, stressed the need for changes in the education policy and curriculum to create a conducive environment for education and employment at home.
At the event titled 'Ma Nagarik, Ma Banauchhu Nepal' (‘I am a citizen, I will build Nepal’) organized by Nepal Republic Media Limited, participants highlighted the importance of state policies that align education with employment opportunities in Nepal.
Chief Guest of the event, Nepali Congress (NC) senior leader Dr. Shekhar Koirala emphasized the need to create employment opportunities alongside education. Noting that many students leave Nepal for better job prospects, he argued that providing quality education aligned with job opportunities within the country could curb this trend.
“Nepal's education policy, system, and curriculum need reform to retain youth at home,” Dr. Koirala said. He suggested adopting a system similar to those in foreign countries where students can work while studying. “If education policy and curriculum are revised, students can pursue employment alongside their studies, reducing the need to go abroad,” he added.
Dr. Koirala expressed optimism about Nepal's development potential in the next decade, mentioning plans to produce 28,000 megawatts of electricity. He also highlighted opportunities in tourism, agriculture, and technology, urging young people to seize these prospects locally.
“There are many sectors in Nepal on the brink of breakthrough, but we have failed to capitalize on them. For instance, we haven’t been able to leverage the benefits of religious tourism here while a religious event like the Mahakumbha is taking place in a neighboring country,” he said. Dr. Koirala emphasized the need to expand tourism beyond religious sites and noted that technological advancements offer income opportunities even in places like Nepalgunj.
He acknowledged the public's distrust in politicians due to a lack of accountability and transparency. “We politicians have shortcomings and weaknesses. We haven’t instilled hope or acted responsibly. I accept this. Now, we need to rebuild trust and take responsibility,” he said.
“The youth hold the responsibility to rebuild the nation,” Dr. Koirala asserted, urging them to stay and contribute to Nepal’s growth. “If you leave, who will build the country? Change must come in our policies, in us politicians, and in you,” he emphasized.
He called on everyone to adopt the mindset of "Ma Nagarik, Ma Banauchhu Nepal" and expressed confidence that the country could prosper with changes in education policy and governance. "Good governance is crucial. If we fail in this regard, the nation will head in the wrong direction," Dr. Koirala warned.
He assured the youth that efforts are underway to establish good governance and urged them to pursue entrepreneurship. “The government must provide funding to support self-employment among youth, as the nation cannot progress otherwise,” he added.
Samridhi Gyawali, managing director of Nepal Republic Media Limited, emphasized the role of youth in nation-building. “You, the youth, are the ones who will build this country,” she said, encouraging them to take responsibility. Gyawali called for policies to retain Nepal's youth workforce and shared her personal experience of returning to Nepal after completing her education abroad with the determination to contribute to the nation.
She also said that there are ample employment opportunities in Nepal for those willing to utilize their skills and abilities. “Today's youth should focus on proving their worth by taking initiative rather than merely criticizing others,” she said. On a different note, Gyawali expressed concern about the adverse effects of climate change on Nepal, stating, “Climate change is progressing dangerously, and Nepal is in a vulnerable position due to environmental disasters.”
Also addressing the event, Shova Gyawali, president of the Federation of Women Entrepreneurs Association of Nepal, highlighted the growing enthusiasm among women entrepreneurs from rural villages to urban centers, recognizing the potential within Nepal. She noted that women are achieving self-reliance by establishing small industries across the country.
“Despite limited opportunities due to population density, there is immense potential in Nepal. Women have advanced their businesses remarkably well in their respective fields,” said Gyawali, who is also the director of Nepal Republic Media Limited. She stressed the need for supportive policies and better financial access for women entrepreneurs. “We want to build the country, live here, and progress together. Today’s mothers, sisters, and aunts are creating this environment for the next generation,” she added.
President Gyawali pointed to the vast opportunities in tourism, agriculture and technology as these sectors continue to grow. She emphasized the importance of providing education and training to women in both urban and rural areas.
“We are advocating for equal, work-based opportunities for women. While women may be slightly behind now, the younger generation should not be discouraged. A day will come when equal opportunities and access are a reality,” she asserted, while emphasizing that empowering women to become entrepreneurs would lead to widespread prosperity.
Laxman Neupane, chairman of Siddhartha Group of Hospitality, spoke about the significant employment potential in Nepal. He shared that Siddhartha Group follows a policy of integrating education and training. “We encourage those who are not pursuing education to continue their studies and support dropouts in resuming their education. There is no need to go abroad for employment. We offer jobs as well as opportunities to become shareholders in the company,” he explained.
Neupane recounted his journey from starting a fast food café in Tikapur to now connecting nearly 2,500 people through his business. “Nepalgunj and Tikapur define my identity and roots. Although I worked in India and received a good job offer from the US, I chose to stay in Nepal because I felt the need to contribute to my own country,” he shared.
Reflecting on challenges faced during the Maoist conflict, Neupane emphasized his commitment to continue his business despite difficulties. He pointed out the shortage of skilled manpower in Nepal’s hospitality sector, adding, “Quality manpower is scarce in Nepal’s hospitality industry. Even domestic hotels are organizing training programs to enhance the skills of those interested.”
Conservationist Manoj Gautam underscored the importance of recognizing opportunities amidst challenges. “No matter how big the problem, we must identify opportunities,” he said. “With the world at our fingertips through information, technology, knowledge and skills, we need to recognize and leverage these resources.”
Gautam shared his journey in wildlife conservation, working with communities to balance development and conservation. He highlighted that over 23% of Nepal's land is designated as protected areas but noted that rigid policies often hinder community involvement. “Conservation has become synonymous with wildlife and forests, creating a taboo around community participation. We need to produce and respect indigenous human resources,” he explained.
The program chaired by Binod Raj Gyawali, chairman of Nepal Republic Media Limited, drew students and teachers from various colleges in Banke. They raised questions about education policies, curriculum challenges and unemployment. Many expressed frustration with the current education system but showed a strong desire to contribute to Nepal’s development. They also lauded the “Ma Nagarik, Ma Banauchhu Nepal” program, describing it as inspiring and pledged to support the nation-building campaign.
The event was also attended by representatives from political parties in Banke and Bardiya, members of the House of Representatives and Provincial Assembly, professors, college administrators and civil society leaders. It was part of the Creator's Champion program, an initiative by Nepal Republic Media Limited aimed at inspiring young people to contribute to Nepal’s development.
Under the slogan “Ma Nagarik, Ma Banauchhu Nepal,” the program recognizes and rewards young content creators demonstrating creativity and vision for a better Nepal. Winners receive cash prizes and certificates of appreciation, along with mentorship from leaders in business and politics.