Kathmandu, August 12
International Youth Day is being observed around the world, including in Nepal, today with various programmes highlighting the important role of young people in shaping society and the future. The theme for this year’s celebration is “Different Contexts, Shared Aspirations,” focusing on the common aspirations of young people despite differences in their social, cultural, geographical and economic circumstances.
International Youth Day has been observed on August 12 since 2000 at the initiative of the United Nations. The Day aims to promote youth-centred discussions and advocacy, increase young people’s participation in policymaking and implementation, and encourage greater investment and partnerships for youth development. A special programme is being held at Nepal Academy in Kamaladi, Kathmandu, featuring an exhibition on information technology and startup businesses.
A youth awareness run is also being organised from Bhrikutimandap to Kamaladi in the federal capital, Kathmandu. The main event will feature a high-level panel discussion on promoting youth entrepreneurship and employment in Nepal. Similarly, six businesses will receive national awards for information technology and startups, while young entrepreneurs from all seven provinces will also be honoured on the occasion.
It may be noted that a meeting of the National Youth Council, chaired by its Chairperson and Minister for Youth, Labour and Employment Ramji Yadav on July 17 this year, decided to celebrate International Youth Day grandly. According to the 2021 National Census, 12,412,173 people aged 16 to 40 accounted for 42.56 per cent of the country’s total population.
