Explore alternatives to foreign employment

The migration of young Nepali nationals abroad in search of better opportunities has reached alarming levels. Recent statistics reveal that a staggering 56,235 young people left Nepal in the month of Asoj (mid-September to mid-October) alone, coinciding with the country's grand festival, Dashain. This figure represents the highest rate of foreign employment departures this fiscal year, underscoring the escalating trend of seeking livelihoods beyond our borders. The consequences of this brain drain are profound, demanding government action to create employment opportunities within the country. Foreign employment is not a new concept for Nepal, having served as a means for our youth to secure financial stability for decades. Nevertheless, the scale and intensity of this phenomenon in recent years raise concerns about the absence of sufficient job opportunities within the country. It is essential that the government acknowledges the pivotal role employment generation plays in a nation's success, an aspect that seems to be currently overlooked.

Decades ago, our economy relied heavily on the agricultural sector, absorbing a significant portion of our population. People cultivated crops primarily for personal consumption, contributing to the country's food self-sufficiency. However, misguided agricultural policies have turned Nepal into a net consumer of foreign agricultural products. This shift, combined with a shortage of labor in the fields, has led us to import essential goods, exacerbating the outflow of our youth to foreign shores. Transitioning from an agrarian society to one driven by the service sector is a natural progression for any country. Nevertheless, it is vital to recognize that job creation in the service sector alone will not suffice. Many nations have evolved from being manufacturers to becoming global service providers. We have witnessed the rise of tech giants like Google, X, and others, which not only advanced themselves but also created opportunities for their respective countries to thrive. Nepal, with its potential in information technology and a growing emphasis on education, has failed to capitalize on this potential, resulting in the departure of its young talents in search of better prospects abroad.

Encouraging the youth to migrate abroad should not be the primary strategy for national progress. The focus should be on addressing the root causes leading our young people to seek education and employment overseas. Skilled manpower sent abroad could be a valuable resource if harnessed effectively for the nation's benefit. It is time to recognize that manpower is one of the most vital means of production, and a country cannot prosper merely by exporting its human resources. While foreign employment has contributed to the improved economic status of many Nepali families, it is not a sustainable or ideal solution. It is essential to find alternatives to this trend to prevent a mass exodus. The current state of affairs in Nepal demands immediate action. The government should develop comprehensive plans and strategies to create job opportunities within the country. The focus should shift from merely facilitating foreign employment to promoting domestic job growth.

It is high time the government adopted a multifaceted approach to address this issue effectively. This may include promoting entrepreneurship, supporting small and medium-sized enterprises, investing in education and skill development, and fostering an environment that encourages investment and job creation. The government should also consider initiatives to bring skilled Nepali workers back to the country and leverage their expertise for the nation's benefit. This could include creating incentives for skilled professionals to return and contribute to the development of domestic industries and services. The escalating trend of Nepali youths seeking foreign employment is a matter of great concern. The government must take immediate and comprehensive action to address this issue, focusing on the creation of job opportunities at home. Only by doing so can Nepal retain its young talent, strengthen its economy, and build a brighter future for its citizens.