KATHMANDU, MARCH 6
The Bagmati Province established a Career Guidance Service Center and career guidance digital platform in Dhulikhel, on Wednesday.
Kumari Moktan, Minister of Social Development, Bagmati Province and Dr. Danielle Meuwly, Ambassador of Switzerland to Nepal, jointly inaugurated the cener.
The Centre aims to assist youths as well as students of grades 8, 9 and 10, in making informed choices of occupation, adopting an appropriate career path, and connecting them with the job market through individual and group counselling. Trained career guidance facilitators and a counsellor with psychology background will provide these services from the center, according to the statement issued by Helvetas Nepal.
"The center will also train secondary school teachers to provide career guidance services in government schools especially in grade 8,9 and 10. Additionally, a digital aptitude test on the provincial Ministry's website helps identify potential career paths based on the youths' interest, abilities, and on labour market demands. Plans include expanding services to municipalities in collaboration with the Employment Service Centre as well as establishing sub-centers in major cities in collaboration with local governments."
During the inauguration, Minister for Social Development, Bagmati Province Kumari Moktan said, "Career guidance is important to develop skilled and dedicated human resources in the country. Hence, the provincial government is committed to strengthening and expanding the service in collaboration with the local government. The province has already included it in its education policy and 10-year plan."
Ambassador of Switzerland to Nepal Dr. Danielle Meuwly said, "Switzerland shares a deep commitment to education, innovation, and youth empowerment. The Career Guidance Service Center will play a pivotal role in bridging the gap between education and employment, empowering young minds to make informed decisions and seize opportunities that resonate with their personal and professional goals."
Mayors of various municipalities and the member secretary of the CTEVT also highlighted the importance of career guidance.
Vera Rentsch, Manager of the BIZ Bern (career guidance center in Switzerland) highlighted career guidance's integration into the Swiss education system and law, while Tamilselvan Mahalingam, Founder/CEO at Future Captains in India, shared insights on career guidance in Indian youths and government involvement. A panel discussion with Secretary at the Ministry of Social Development, Bagmati Province, Undersecretary/Education Division Head, Budhanilkantha Municipality, Dean of School of Education, Kathmandu University, and Career Guidance Teacher/Master Trainer explored its importance, potential contributions to Nepal's education sector, and collaboration opportunities.
The career guidance service center was established with the support of the Enhanced Skills for Sustainable and Rewarding Employment (ENSSURE) Project, a bilateral initiative between the Governments of Nepal and Switzerland.
