Say yes to youth in politics Nepal needs us

The most progressive, articulate, inspired and dynamic segment of the country’s population is the youth. Most young people are motivated and long to do well in everything they do. They are energetic and zealous, and have the physical power, courage and sense of adventure to explore the unknown. The chains of traditions and preconditions hardly bog them down, and they never stop in the race of transformation and take less time in adapting to a new environment. For them, ‘impossible’ is just the abbreviation of ‘I am possible’.



And these are precisely the reasons why youths can play a significant role in politics. They have it in them to transform a nation in a relatively short period of time. The country should be able to capitalize on these traits of the youths and increase youth participation in mainstream politics. [break]



In the political history of Nepal, youths have significantly contributed in bringing democracy in the country – whether it be 1950 BS that saw the end of oligarchic Rana Regime, or 1990 BS which marked the end of the three-decade long Panchayati system and 2008 BS that ended 239-year-old monarchy. And, in the latest movement for democracy in 2063 BS, they were youths as young as school students in the forefront.



A reason for this farsightedness could be the realization that they are responsible for the future of their nation.



However, there have always been two different opinions regarding the involvement of youths in politics. One group of people thinks that it’s best for youths studying in universities to be kept away from the influence of politics, while the other group opines that youth ought to be well versed in politics because they’re the future leaders of the country.



They further argue that education would be incomplete without a good dose of politics. According to them, Political Science should be a part of the syllabus both in schools and colleges. This will help underline the role that politics plays in various stages of a person’s life. Hence, it makes no sense to shut out youths from politics.



The group that wants to keep young minds away from politics points at the youths’ responsibility to etch the future of nation by showing their educational fitness and intellect to the world community. “The first and foremost task of a youth is to attain excellence in their studies,” they often say, “If he’s not well versed in his studies, he’ll never become a good politician.” The students’ participation in politics should be limited only to the academic interest and acquisition of knowledge of working of various political systems. The student life must not be mingled with politics, they believe.



However, history is replete with examples of students playing a vital role in overthrowing corrupt dictatorial regimes, freeing their people from foreign yoke and launching relentless crusades against social injustice and exploitation. Majority of great leaders entered politics during their student life. Therefore, political education or training during student life is important for success in life. The power of the youth is a mighty river, waiting to be channelized.



Today the country is waiting for young and honest leaders. We want young leaders who’ll use their brain and power to build a better nation. I believe that a young and educated leader can introduce the much needed peace, development and security to our country.



Hence, if we are dreaming for development, sustainable peace and a better place to live in, then involvement of young minds in politics is the key.



The writer is the coordinator of Asia Pacific Young Greens Network, a sister organization of Asia Pacific Greens Network – the umbrella organization of Green Parties in the Asia Pacific.

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