Exploring the Exodus: The Impact of Youth Migration on Nepal's Future

Nepal has long grappled with the issue of youth migration. This exodus of young minds seeking opportunities abroad has left an indelible mark on the nation's social and economic fabric. The departure of Nepali youths is not a new trend but has gained momentum in the past few decades. Nepal's limited economic prospects, political instability, and inadequate infrastructure have left many young Nepalese with a bleak outlook for their future in the country. As a result, they seek opportunities in foreign lands, often opting for countries like India, the Middle East, and even farther destinations like Australia, New Zealand, the United States, and Europe. One of the most significant consequences of this departure is the demographic imbalance it creates, with the youth population leaving in search of better prospects and Nepal's workforce dwindling. This not only impacts the country's labour force but also has long-term repercussions on social and economic development. The elderly population is growing, leading to increased dependency ratios and straining the limited resources available for social welfare.

The departure of youth often leads to a brain drain. Many of the brightest and most skilled individuals leave Nepal, contributing their talents to other countries. This poses a significant challenge to the country's efforts to build a knowledge-based economy and enhance its capacity for innovation and technological advancement. There is a profound impact on social and family dynamics. Families are often separated for extended periods, which can strain relationships and disrupt the traditional family structure. The absence of young individuals in rural areas has led to a demographic shift, with older generations left to manage agricultural activities and communities lacking the dynamism and innovation that young people bring.

Economically, the departure of youths represents both a challenge and an opportunity. Remittances from Nepali migrant workers and students abroad were a vital lifeline for the country's economy in 2023. Nepal received over $1 trillion, 112 billion, and 52 million in remittances in the first eleven months of the current fiscal year (NRB, 2022-23). Remittance inflows to GDP (%) in Nepal were reported at 24.25%. While these funds are crucial for many families' livelihoods, they do not address the root causes of the country's economic challenges. Furthermore, they are vulnerable to global economic fluctuations and could decrease in the future. Many youths leave Nepal in pursuit of an improved quality of life, including better healthcare, infrastructure, quality education, and living standards.

This trend has both positive and negative consequences. On one hand, remittances sent back by Nepali migrants play a crucial role in boosting the country's economy and supporting the livelihoods of many families. On the other hand, the loss of skilled and educated young people poses a challenge to Nepal's development efforts. It is imperative for Nepal to invest in education, job creation, and infrastructure development, providing youths with reasons to stay and contribute to the nation's progress. Additionally, policies aimed at protecting the rights and well-being of Nepali migrants abroad should be strengthened. Ultimately, a holistic approach that combines opportunities and support for youths within the country, along with measures to ensure their well-being abroad, is essential to mitigate the departure of youths from Nepal and harness their potential for the nation's benefit.

In the past 12 years, the Nepali government has invested Rs. 1.4 trillion in the education sector, but it has failed to assure and sustain students in domestic education. A total of 416,364 students have taken the NOC (No Objection Certificate) from the fiscal year 2065/066 B.S. to 2077/078 B.S., or 227,780. There was a huge jump in labour approvals, from 166,698 in 2020 to 368,433 in 2021. Nearly 78% of the permits so far this year were for just three countries: Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE. Under the Korea employment permit scheme and Israel carer G2G workers underwent gruelling testing and selection processes. Over 600,000 people in Nepal have left the country for foreign employment over the past 10 months of the ongoing fiscal year 2022–2023. According to the Department of Foreign Employment, 660,255 people have obtained employment permits to work abroad. Remittances have become an increasingly important aspect of Nepal's economy, with millions of Nepali citizens working abroad and sending money home to their families. In recent years, remittances have significantly contributed to the country's GDP, accounting for 20.76% in FY 2021/22. In the first eight months of FY 2022/023, remittance inflows increased by 25.3% to NPR 794.32 billion.

The government needs to create an environment conducive to economic growth and job creation. This includes investing in education, infrastructure, and healthcare to provide opportunities and incentives for youths to stay in Nepal. Efforts should be made to diversify the economy, reducing its reliance on remittances. Encouraging entrepreneurship, fostering innovation, and creating an ecosystem that supports small and medium-sized enterprises can help create sustainable job opportunities. There is a need for targeted policies and programmes that address the specific challenges faced by rural communities. Investment in agriculture, technology, and rural infrastructure can revitalise these areas and provide incentives for young people to remain engaged in their communities. Furthermore, promoting skills development and vocational training can enhance the employability of Nepali youths, both within the country and abroad. This can lead to better job prospects and higher wages, reducing the need for youths to seek employment overseas.

The departure of Nepali youths is a complex issue with wide-ranging implications. While remittances provide short-term relief to many families, The departure of Nepalese students for study abroad represents a significant trend with both opportunities and challenges. It reflects the aspirations for quality education and global exposure among Nepalese youth. While it offers them a chance to broaden their horizons and acquire valuable skills, it also poses financial and cultural adjustment challenges. Nonetheless, this phenomenon showcases the determination and potential of Nepalese students to excel on the global stage, contributing not only to their own personal growth but also to the development of Nepal as they bring back their knowledge and experiences to the homeland. Similarly, the departure of Nepalese employees for opportunities abroad is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon. While it offers individuals a chance for personal and professional growth, it also presents challenges for Nepal's workforce and economy. Balancing the benefits of international employment with the need for talent retention and skill development within the country is a critical task for policymakers and businesses alike. The long-term consequences, including demographic imbalances and a brain drain, are concerning. To address this challenge, Nepal must invest in its economy, create opportunities, and implement policies that encourage young people to stay and contribute to the country's growth. Only through these concerted efforts can Nepal reverse the tide of youth departure and build a brighter future for its citizens.