11th March 2025, Kathmandu
The Fifth National Labour and Employment Conference, inaugurated by H.E. Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli, marks the beginning of the ‘Decade of Internal Employment Generation’ in Nepal. Organized by MoLESS in collaboration with ILO Nepal and other partners, the two-day event focuses on expanding production and productivity as a foundation for sustainable employment. With 67% of Nepal’s workforce aged 15-65, the country aims to maximize its demographic dividend by strengthening internal job opportunities. Insights from the conference will shape future policies and programs aligned with the 16th Plan, SDGs, and Nepal’s vision of a Prosperous Nepal, Happy Nepali.
In a significant move to address Nepal’s employment challenges, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli inaugurated the National Labour and Employment Conference, 2081, emphasizing the critical need for domestic job creation and the utilization of science and technology to boost the nation’s economy.
PM Oli Domestic Job Creation
The event, held in Kathmandu, brought together policymakers, private sector representatives, and international partners to discuss strategies for fostering employment and economic growth.
Key Highlights from PM Oli’s Address
Prime Minister Oli acknowledged the private sector’s pivotal role in creating employment opportunities within Nepal. He highlighted the government’s commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and innovation to achieve the national vision of a “Prosperous Nepal, Happy Nepali.”
Focus on Domestic Employment: PM Oli stressed that while many Nepalis seek employment abroad, the country’s economy cannot grow sustainably without creating jobs at home. He called for enhanced production and productivity through the adoption of science and technology.
Skilled Manpower Development: The Prime Minister emphasized the importance of developing a skilled workforce capable of competing in the global market. He urged stakeholders to focus on vocational training and education to meet the demands of a rapidly changing job market.
Private Sector’s Contribution: PM Oli praised the private sector for its significant role in generating employment and urged continued collaboration between the government and private enterprises to drive economic growth.
Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) Signings
The conference also witnessed the signing of two key Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs):
National Skill Development Institute and Employment Providers: This agreement aims to enhance collaboration between skill development institutions and employment providers to ensure that Nepali workers are equipped with the skills needed for modern job markets.
Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Security and Swiss Agency: The MoU focuses on expanding the Integrated Labour Market Information System under the Prime Minister Employment Programme. This initiative will improve data collection and analysis to better align job creation strategies with market needs.
The Way Forward
The National Labour and Employment Conference 2081 marks a crucial step in Nepal’s journey toward economic self-reliance and sustainable development. By leveraging the private sector’s potential, investing in science and technology, and prioritizing skill development, Nepal can create a robust domestic job market that reduces dependency on foreign employment.
Prime Minister Oli’s vision underscores the importance of collaboration between the government, private sector, and international partners to achieve the national aspiration of a prosperous and happy Nepal.
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