Village youth attracted to development jobs

After the April 25 earthquake, many young people in villages have shown an increasing interest in joining development agencies. The number of youth applying for limited seats of development agencies is astonishingly high in Gorkha, said Subhash Bharati, a WASH engineer with ECO Nepal, a local NGO. "Young people today seem to understand that they should not limit their interests to medicine and engineering, and that development field can be a lucrative option too," Bharati added.

"During my visits to various remote villages in Nepal, I was inquired by many young people on how to join development agencies," said David Wallace Smith, regional representative of Dan Church Aid. He said that many development agencies are after young talents these days.

"We need new ideas and new approaches to run our programs," he said, adding, "After all, youth are the future of the country."

Republica's Bipulendra Adhikari caught up with some young people actively working with development agencies in Gorkha about the work they're currently doing, and their future plans.

Ayush Pradhanang, 24
Kathmandu

I'm a graduate of Business Administration from Apex College in Kathmandu. I'm currently working for a NGO promoting livelihood. The best thing about this job is that you go on the field and learn by doing. This has helped me gain the much-needed practical knowledge while working here in Gorkha. Getting this job wasn't easy though. I had to go through a tough test and an interview before I was selected for the post. I have been raising awareness among villagers on livestock management here. I want to continue working in the development field in the coming days. I also plan to join Master's in Rural Development.

Sarita Sedhai, 19
Lamjung

I have completed sub-overseer studies and currently enrolled in BBS first year at Drabya Shah Multiple Campus in Gorkha. I am working in the field of water and sanitation, compiling various data on water schemes and sanitation. I have directly participated in three water supply projects—two have already been completed and one is in the last phase of completion. I not only chose to work in the development sector because this interests me, but it also gives me an opportunity to fully make use of what I've studied in the classroom.

Shriya Dhamala, 21
Kailali

I have completed staff nurse course and I'm currently working in villages of Gorkha disseminating awareness on sanitation. I have been teaching people on latrine maintenance, menstrual hygiene, etc. I'm very happy with my work here, and I'm looking forward to explore more opportunities in the development sector. It not only matches my interests but also provides a career option I can rely on. However, if I fail to get a new offer after my contract ends, I will pursue Bachelor's in Nursing, and will look for jobs in development agencies.

Nabina Gurung, 24
Gorkha

I'm working as a social mobilizer for six VDCs in Gorkha District. I always wanted to be involved with development agencies in order to contribute for the betterment of marginalized and backward communities. My main responsibility right now is to compile what the villagers need. I have already compiled the requirements of 300 households of Talingchowk VDC and reported it to my supervisor. The work here has given me practical experience that books fail to offer. I'm waiting for my Bachelor's results.

Yan Bahadur Praja, 28
Gorkha

I am from the Chepang community and I currently work as a mason trainer. I have been directly involved in the construction of around 45 latrines at the Talingchowk VDC of Gorkha District in the last four months. I visited the Chepang community and shared my knowledge on construction of latrines and earthquake-resistant houses. As I belong to the community, it's easier for me to convince them. My association with development agencies has also helped me convince my people.