Nepal started observing International Women’s Day 34 years ago, commemorating a significant occasion that underscores the united commitment to human rights and the ongoing pursuit of gender parity. The theme for Women's Day this year (March 8) is "Invest in women: Accelerate progress," complemented by the campaign theme, "Inspire Inclusion”. In celebration of the 34th International Women’s Day in Nepal, Republica has curated a collection of 34 inspiring stories showcasing unwavering courage, resilience, and empowerment of women below the age of 34. These stories are not merely personal; they wield a profound impact, shaping the lives of those who share them. They unfold as tales of courage, resilience, and empowerment.

Raised in Lalitpur's Lamatar, 30-year-old Aastha Sharma has become a notable figure in the IT industry. Five years ago, after completing her degree in Communication and Electronics Engineering, she founded an IT company named 'Code Rush'. This company has introduced a novel approach to the industry by transforming recent graduates into skilled professionals.

The trend of producing IT manpower has grown, yet the country struggles to provide adequate opportunities for all its graduates. Consequently, a significant number of people are seeking opportunities abroad. However, Sharma observed that IT engineers from Nepal, who venture overseas without proper training, often lack the skills demanded by the international market.

Addressing this gap, Sharma's company has been nurturing this talent pool for three years, successfully training 1,000 individuals. Many have secured employment abroad, while others have found promising careers within Nepal.

Looking ahead, Sharma aims to forge international-level career paths for the new generation within Nepal's IT sector. The shift towards remote and flexible working arrangements, catalyzed by the COVID-19 pandemic, has unlocked new prospects for the IT industry.

She believes this shift can act as a conduit for Nepali IT engineers to engage with international firms by enhancing their skills. Sharma, who has been dedicated to her studies from a young age, asserts, "Continuous effort in any domain can lead to success."

 
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