Young PM faces challenge of youth aspirations
Summary
Nepal’s young government faces pressure to turn the country’s large youth population into jobs, skills and real opportunities as thousands of young people continue leaving for work and study abroad. Experts warn that without stronger education, employment and private-sector investment, the demographic dividend could become a source of frustration and migration.
Key Points
- International Youth Day is being marked under a UN theme focused on digital pathways, education, decent jobs and youth participation.
- Prime Minister Balendra Shah’s government faces growing expectations from young Nepalis for better governance, employment and equal opportunities.
- Nepal’s large youth population could deliver a demographic dividend, but only if the state invests more in education, skills and productive sectors.
- A national employment policy and amendments to the National Youth Council Act are being prepared to support youth jobs and self-employment.
