How can Nepal support its engineers?

Engineers and architects in Nepal grapple with many challenges, including a lack of professional unity, fair compensation, inefficient contractors, and delayed client payments. Despite these hurdles, there are immense opportunities in enhancing tourism infrastructure, preserving cultural heritage, and managing water resources. Aaradhana Shrestha from ApEx asked three engineers what were the biggest challenges and opportunities in their field, and how the sector could support innovation and development.

Shree Krishna Shrestha, 22

As a civil engineer in Nepal, I face a lot of challenges. Job dissatisfaction arises from limited career advancement and inadequate compensation. Political instability disrupts projects, and construction sites often lack essential safety measures. Legal issues can be inequitable, political favoritism undermines fairness, and corruption impairs project integrity. Insufficient implementation and oversight lead to delays and substandard results.

Nevertheless, there are many opportunities too. There are government appointed roles in many organizations, including but not limited to the Department of Roads (DoR) and the Nepal Army Engineering Directorate. The private sector offers positions in residential, commercial, and infrastructure projects. Civil engineers can also work with NGOs and INGOs in disaster relief, infrastructure development, urban planning, water and sanitation, sustainability, and rural development. Furthermore, there are prospects in construction entrepreneurship. 

To drive innovation, increased investment in research and expertise is crucial. Breakthroughs in water management, seismic-resistant structures, and transportation technologies are essential. Supporting these innovations will enhance public safety and infrastructure efficiency, benefiting millions across Nepal.

Ankeeta Shrestha, 24

Nepal is a dynamic country in terms of politics, development, innovation, and everything in between. It has immense potential as a developing country, with much work to be done in areas such as tourism infrastructure, cultural heritage, water resource management, and more. Development is directly linked with the engineering and architecture professions. The challenges that come with these fields are immense, and the list goes on.

As a fresh architect just out of academia and with only a year of professional experience, I have tried to find opportunities and look at the brighter side. Many of my batchmates are leaving the country or planning to leave. They are desperately seeking better opportunities elsewhere. Hopefully, the government will recognize the potential of its youth in the days to come so that young architects and engineers can invest their knowledge in their own land.

Surendra Pandit, 24

The government doesn’t invest in scientific research. As an electrical engineer, I’m disheartened to see that there’s no research that coincides with my interests. Many engineers and architects feel the same way and consider this a big problem. Even those involved in some sort of research often face financial hurdles which prevents them from completing it. Engineers in Nepal aren’t able to compete in the global market due to this reason, along with other factors such as fewer employment opportunities, underpaid jobs, and social security concerns.

The only solution to these problems is for the Nepal government to show more concern and invest in scientific research. Additionally, suitable investment opportunities for foreign agencies to contribute to research areas within Nepal must be created. Furthermore, organizations hiring engineers or architects must ensure social security and fulfill the financial needs that are much deserved and needed by these professionals.