While overpopulation is often linked to resource scarcity, unemployment, and inequality, real solutions lie beyond memorizing statistics. Meaningful progress comes from engaging youth through practical, creative education—like gamified learning and field-based experiences. ApEx spoke to three people to understand Nepal’s demographic changes, innovation, and responsibility.
Soniya Bhetuwal, 19
Population growth impacts social, economic, and environmental systems, leading to challenges like resource scarcity, unemployment, and inequality. While often viewed negatively, it also brings opportunities such as increased labor and innovation. To address population issues effectively, education must move beyond traditional methods—using interactive, practical tools like field trips and digital learning to engage students meaningfully. A smart, informed society requires investment in data-driven planning, frugal innovation, and sustainable urban development. Governments must also create open feedback systems to ensure policies meet people’s real needs and foster inclusive decision-making.
Pravash Pandey, 29
Nepal’s population is growing at its slowest rate in 80 years—just 0.92 percent annually—but the effects remain significant. Cities are overcrowded, rural areas see a decline in population, and many youth are migrating abroad. With a fertility rate below replacement level (1.9), Nepal is heading toward population aging, which could strain healthcare, social support, and the economy.
Education—especially for women and rural communities—has helped lower birth rates and can empower people to make informed choices. However, more needs to be done. Education should include life skills, reproductive health, financial literacy, and climate awareness.
Nepal is currently in a ‘demographic window,’ with a high working-age population. This is a crucial time to invest in education, healthcare, job creation, and infrastructure. Migration shouldn’t be the only option. Opportunities must be created at home. Sustainable development must balance growth with environmental protection. Clean energy, sustainable farming, and inclusive policies are essential for lasting progress.
Anup Jung Pandey, 33
Population growth is changing our lives by making cities denser, increasing competition for jobs and resources. It is creating new demands and also driving innovation to meet new demands.
Education is key, it empowers individuals to make wise choices and teaches them to face challenges like resource scarcity, and cultivates the innovation needed for social welfare. Developing nations can grow sustainably by investing in people’s health and education, managing resources wisely, diversifying their economies, strengthening transparent governance, and ensuring that the economy benefits all citizens fairly.
