Strategies to Combat Nepal’s Brain Drain
A Panel Discussion
On July 29, 2024, I had the privilege of moderating a compelling panel discussion at the Bodhi Toastmasters’ 283rd Club Meeting, addressing the critical issue of brain drain in Nepal. As we convened, the atmosphere was charged with both concern and optimism. The panelists offered valuable insights into the reasons behind the mass exodus of young people from the country. The stark reality is undeniable: approximately 3,000 youth depart daily in pursuit of superior education, employment opportunities, and a more promising future, amounting to roughly 90,000 monthly departures.
The panel featured a diverse group, including TM Subash Rai, who represented the student perspective. He candidly expressed many students’ mixed emotions—while the allure of studying abroad is undeniable, there’s also a sense of confusion about leaving their homeland behind. TM Vaishali Pradhan, a parent, shared her worries about the future of Nepal, emphasizing the need for support systems that allow children to explore their interests locally. Meanwhile, TM Binita Jajodia, an experienced educator, raised alarms about how this trend could impact the quality of education in Nepal, as talented teachers and students alike seek greener pastures.
TM Niladri S. Parial rounded off the discussion by highlighting the role society plays in creating opportunities for youth at home. He passionately argued that with the right support, we could cultivate a generation of world-class citizens right here in Nepal. Despite the challenges, we also explored the silver linings of brain drain. For instance, many Nepali students abroad are gaining skills that could eventually benefit Nepal through remittance and knowledge transfer.
My evaluator, TM Anjila Bista, astutely noted that I could have concluded the discussion with a more robust call to action. Instead, I focused on practical solutions—such as enhancing job opportunities and fostering a culture that values local education. The conversation underscored the urgent need for strategic interventions to mitigate the long-term effects of brain drain, ensuring that Nepal’s brightest minds can flourish at home.
This panel discussion served as a crucial platform for addressing a pressing national issue, fostering dialogue, and exploring potential solutions to retain Nepal’s talented youth. It is my personal hope that soon we can usher a new beginning for the society, in which serious issues such as brain drain are comprehensively addressed at the national level through effective policies that percolate down to the educational institutions, the local economies, and to the decision makers – the students and families. I am sure collective political and societal will can ensure that we usher in ‘brain gain’
-Chandrayan P. Shrestha, Bodhi Toastmasters Club
Box text: The conversation underscored the urgent need for strategic interventions to mitigate the long-term effects of brain drain, ensuring that Nepal’s brightest minds can flourish at home.
Chandrayan P. Shrestha
Bodhi Toastmasters Club