Why Nepali youths want to go abroad?

Despite Nepal's attractive natural, social and cultural characteristics and heritages, young generation does not like to stay home. Most of today's youths aspire to go abroad for a better life.

The tendency among youths of leaving the country in the name of 'higher study' is going up year by year. Nepali youths generally try to go to 'developed' countries, like the United States, Canada, Australia, and European countries. This trend is clearly mirrored in mushrooming 'Abroad Study Consultancy' firms in the capital city Kathmandu and other cities of the country.

As the youths desperately endeavour to leave the country, the nation is at a loss in various ways. We are losing huge pool of human resources while paying hefty amount of hard-earned foreign currencies.

Nepali youths not staying in the country raises a serious concern. Following are the main reasons behind this antipathy:

• Lack of opportunities: Nepal is a developing country, and opportunities for employment and education are limited, especially in comparison to developed countries. Many Nepali youths may feel that they can have better career prospects and access to education if they go abroad.

• Economic reasons: Many Nepali families struggle to make ends meet, and going abroad can provide opportunities for better-paying jobs and higher standards of living. Nepali youths may want to go abroad to support their families financially.

• Exposure to the outside world: Many Nepali youths are exposed to Western culture and values through media and the internet. They may feel that their aspirations and beliefs align more with those of developed countries, and going abroad can allow them to explore and experience these cultures first-hand.

• Political instability: Nepal has a history of political instability, and this creates an uncertain future for young people. Going abroad can provide a sense of security and stability that may be lacking in Nepal.

Nepal has been facing social and political chaos for several decades. The country has a history of conflict, including a ten-year-long civil war that ended in 2006. Since then, Nepal has undergone significant political changes, including the abolition of the monarchy and the establishment of a federal democratic republic.

However, despite these changes, Nepal's political landscape remains highly fragmented and polarized, with numerous political parties and factions competing for power and influence. This has led to frequent changes in government and a lack of political stability, making it difficult for the country to address key social and economic challenges.

• Social reasons: Some Nepali youths may feel that they do not fit in with Nepali society or may face discrimination due to their background or beliefs. Going abroad can provide a sense of freedom and acceptance that may not be available in Nepal.

Nepal is also facing a number of social challenges, including poverty, inequality, and discrimination. These issues are particularly acute in rural areas, where access to basic services, such as education, healthcare, and clean water is limited.

• Education: Education in Nepal may not always meet the standards that some young people desire and this could limit their access to quality higher education and training.

• Brain drain: Many young and talented Nepalis have migrated to other countries for better career prospects, leading to a 'brain drain' that can impact the country's economic growth and development in the long run.

The trend of Nepali youths going abroad is becoming a complex problem for the country, for the society and families. Though there are a number factors behind this problem, general public do not have capacity to solve those. While there are many opportunities and benefits of living in Nepal, the lure of a better life abroad is a common aspiration for many Nepali youths.

One can only hope that policy makers take this problem seriously and address the factors behind 'brain drain.'

Published on 21 April 2023