Job Market Needs Skilled Workforce

In a rapidly changing world, it’s becoming clear that many of today's jobs will not exist tomorrow. As we step into an era dominated by automation, artificial intelligence (AI), and green energy, workers must equip themselves with the right skills to stay competitive. According to a World Economic Forum, nearly one-quarter of all existing jobs will transform significantly within the next five years. This shift presents both challenges and opportunities for Nepal’s workforce, particularly its youth.

The relentless advance of technology is reshaping job markets globally. AI, machine learning, big data, and cloud computing have already transformed industries, driving economic growth while rendering some jobs obsolete. However, there is a silver lining: although certain roles will disappear, many more will emerge, especially in sectors like technology, sustainability, and healthcare. In Nepal, this global trend is beginning to take root. The country, still developing in many areas, is witnessing rapid changes in industries like IT, manufacturing, and agriculture. To stay relevant in this new economy, Nepal’s workforce must proactively develop the skills necessary to thrive.

STEM education 

For Nepal’s youth, the future lies in STEM—Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. Globally, these fields are expected to dominate the job market, with increasing demand for software developers, data analysts, engineers, and cybersecurity experts. However, Nepal faces significant challenges in STEM education. Public schools often lack the resources to provide quality instruction in these critical subjects, leaving many students ill-prepared for the demands of the global job market. This is especially true in rural areas, where access to technology and skilled teachers is limited.

To compete on a global scale and drive domestic innovation, Nepal must invest heavily in STEM education. Imagine a generation of skilled Nepali engineers, scientists, and technologists tackling the country’s most pressing issues, from infrastructure development to environmental sustainability. Achieving this will require strong policy interventions, public-private partnerships, and a cultural shift that encourages more students to pursue careers in STEM fields. While technical skills are essential, they alone are not enough to succeed in the modern workforce. Industry experts emphasise that soft skills — such as creativity, communication, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence — will become even more valuable as technology advances.

AI may automate many tasks, but it cannot replicate human creativity or the ability to empathise and build relationships. Employers in Nepal and around the world increasingly prioritise these skills, recognising their importance in leadership, problem-solving, and teamwork. Integrating soft skills training into Nepal’s education system, from primary school to university, will be crucial. By fostering creativity and emotional intelligence in young people, we can ensure that they remain adaptable and resilient in the face of rapid technological change.

As the world shifts toward a greener future, driven by the urgent need to combat climate change, new industries are emerging that promise to create millions of jobs. The World Economic Forum predicts that the transition to clean energy and sustainable practices could generate up to 30 million jobs by 2030. Nepal, with its rich natural resources and potential for renewable energy, is uniquely positioned to benefit from this shift. The country’s burgeoning hydropower industry, combined with growing investment in solar energy and sustainable agriculture, offers significant opportunities for job creation. However, the workforce must be prepared to fill these roles.

To tap into the green economy, workers need to develop new skills — ranging from environmental science and sustainable engineering to eco-friendly urban planning. Nepal’s vocational training programmes and educational institutions must evolve to meet the growing demand for expertise in green technologies. In Nepal, as in many countries, the media plays a critical role in shaping perceptions of the job market. National media outlets should highlight the changing landscape of employment and the skills required to succeed. Rather than focusing solely on job losses or the impact of automation, the media should emphasise the opportunities that lie ahead and the pathways to acquire the necessary skills.

Investment 

Policymakers must also take the lead in preparing the workforce for the future. This includes investing in education and training programmes that focus on emerging industries, promoting public awareness of future job trends, and supporting entrepreneurs and startups that are pioneering new technologies. One example is Nepal’s investment in tech incubators and innovation hubs, which are nurturing a new generation of entrepreneurs. By fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, Nepal can position itself as a competitive player in the global economy.

The future of work is both exciting and uncertain. While it’s true that some jobs will disappear as technology advances, countless new opportunities are on the horizon for those who are prepared. Nepal must focus on equipping its workforce with the skills needed to thrive in this changing landscape—particularly in the areas of STEM, soft skills, and green technologies. The time to act is now. By embracing innovation, fostering creativity, and investing in education, Nepal can ensure that its workforce is ready to meet the challenges and seize the opportunities of the future. With the right approach, Nepal has the potential to emerge as a leader in the global workforce of tomorrow.

 (The author is an associate professor of Tribhuvan University.)