Kathmandu -Nepal, which is currently experiencing a demographic dividend — a once-in-a-nation opportunity in its history — has failed to generate sufficient employment and opportunities.

According to the latest report by the Central Bureau of Statistics, while the number of people available for work has increased, the country has not been able to create jobs accordingly. 

Moreover, there appears to be a lack of adequate preparation for addressing this issue.

In such a situation, the majority of youth are seeking employment abroad. 

Over the past two decades, the attraction of foreign employment has been growing among Nepali youth. 

Following the economic slowdown triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic, even the regular economic activities declined, leading to a steady rise in the number of youth going abroad for work each year.

As the number of working-age individuals searching for opportunities increases within the country’s demographic structure, and as economic activities continue to decline, foreign employment has become more of a compulsion for many.

Every year, new entrants to the labour market are unable to find jobs within Nepal. The state has failed to develop policies that create employment opportunities, and the private sector has not been able to expand investment either. 

Due to the lack of investment expansion, large sums of investable capital remain idle in banks and financial institutions.

There has not been a significant increase in investment commitments in new industries, which has directly affected the youth. 

With insufficient job opportunities in the country, foreign employment has become a near-necessity for them. The number of youths leaving for foreign employment continues to rise.

As the current fiscal year nears its end, a record number of youths have departed for foreign jobs.

According to the Department of Foreign Employment, from the beginning of this fiscal year (Shrawan) up to Ashadh 24, a total of 818,129 youths have left the country for foreign employment — the highest figure on record.

Previously, the highest number was recorded in fiscal year 2079/080, when 771,331 youths went abroad for work.

In fiscal year 2080/081, the number stood at 741,296.