From the first systematic attempt at scientific breakthrough to address communal needs by the young French government in the seventeenth century to the recent revolutionary advances in Artificial Intelligence, Space Exploration, and Gene editing today, research lies at the core of each quantum leap. The concept, methodologies, and objectives of conducting research have evolved over time; however, they are based on the foundation of studying the existing literature and discovering new information. It has become a cornerstone of national development in the twenty-first century, shaping policies, driving innovation, and addressing socio-economic challenges. As it has gained momentum in various fields, expanding from science and technology to social sciences, research is used as a medium to find solutions of the identified issues to drive economic, social, technological, and environmental progress globally.
Youth Participation in Research
In Nepal, research culture has flourished, with increasing youth engagement driven by their academic curiosity
and professional aspirations. Opportunities in research have been backed up by the growing availability of
research platforms, online resource materials, and academic institutions. Current research trends in the STEM
fields have witnessed a gradual increase with universities and research institutions leading the way in areas of
biotechnology, Artificial Intelligence, renewable energy, and microbiology.
Similarly, social science research has been instrumental in understanding Nepal’s unstable political shifts and
economic landscape. Youth participation in research on topics like migration patterns, gender inequality,
urbanization, and federal governance structures has enabled them to question the existing issues and seek policy
reforms. Besides, natural and social sciences, public health and clinical research are a growing field in Nepal,
particularly in epidemiology, maternal and child health, and disaster risk reduction. Furthermore, research on
global warming, housing injustice, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable development has been prioritized
owing to Nepal’s increasing vulnerability to climate change.
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Barriers to Youth Research
The noticeable trend of research among youth is considered a milestone in the academic community, however, various challenges persist that hinder their involvement despite their interests. The gap between academia and the industry seems to be tricky, which many young people fail to connect. Even professionals perceive research as an act of merely gathering information while it is a rigorous, time-consuming process and often ignore to abide by the discipline and protocols that enhance one’s research experience. Moreover, national funding and investments in research are scarce, depriving young scholars of access to resources required to implement their ideas. In this regard, many academicians lack proper mentorship, incentives, and support to carry out their research and publish quality outputs.
Opportunities and Future Prospects
Despite the challenges, young academicians continue to thrive in the research landscape by engaging in
independent research projects and participating in research discussions, publications, conferences, and
youth-led research networks. Their involvement in cultivating research culture through collaboration,
interdisciplinary approach, and cross-cultural networks has encouraged stakeholders to create more opportunities
to tackle the challenges at hand.
As research plays a crucial role in national development and enhancing global competitiveness, more
opportunities and collaboration should be created to build a strong research ecosystem in Nepal. While
challenges remain, the increasing engagement of youth in research should be appreciated to fill the void of
disconnect from the broader global research landscape. In this regard, the research prospect in Nepal is
ever-evolving with promising advancements in natural and social sciences encompassing healthcare, sustainable
development, and technological innovations.
An Initiative by NRCC for Aspiring Researchers in Nepal
To support aspiring researchers and cultivate a research culture in Nepal, the Nepal Research and Collaboration Centre (NRCC) is organizing a comprehensive research training program designed for young participants with expert trainers in their domains. This one-of-a-kind initiative will provide mentorship, training, and resources to help young researchers refine their skills and contribute meaningfully to the evolving prospects of Nepal’s research. Stay updated on the NRCC’s website and social media platforms for more details on how to participate!