Panacea for Growth
Doubling Nepal’s current economic growth rate of 3.6 per cent to 7 per cent and above is not an unattainable dream. The only need is a vision from the government, commitment by all, and handing over the responsibility of driving the economy to the private sector. The private sector of Nepal has already made significant contributions to the economy by creating jobs, being a source of revenue to the government that is later used in development projects, and by producing goods required by both the state and the general public. Lately, the private sector has been improving performance in the hydropower and tourism sectors through which the country, it is believed, will prosper. Similarly, the private sector has strong presence in essential services like health and education where it is doing comparatively better than the public sector. Gradually, the private sector is carving its space in infrastructure development as well. They need encouragement and support to make large scale investments that would have multiplier effects in the economy. Such investments would not only increase the GDP, but also ensure holistic growth in the country. As everyone is talking in favour of upgrading the country to a developing economy from the current status of ‘least developed country’, vision and commitment to make it happen is more important than talks.
- Sudhir Adhikari, Durbar Marg
Timely Curriculum
The essence of any education system lies on an updated curriculum and pedagogy. Realising this, KUSOM has restructured its MBA programme to match the constantly evolving management scenario in the real world. A successful curriculum is one that best matches the real life working environment. For this, theoretical, analytical and practical relevance of any course must be well blended. Kathmandu University has remained ahead of the competition in management as well as other disciplines among other Nepali universities. Similar practices of the university to disseminate updated and timely knowledge with practical aspects has given it an edge above others.
-Pratistha Neupane, Balkumari
Healthcare Business
Healthcare business has been emerging as a lucrative sector. Major corporate houses have been investing in the healthcare sector and offering premium facilities. Norvic Hospital, Grande International, Om Hospital, B&B, Medicare Hospital, Manipal Medical College are some of the popular names in the private healthcare service industry. These are also examples of the potential the private sector has seen in this sector - they have not invested such huge amounts of money without reason. Similarly, tie-ups with foreign joint ventures are another sign that the business of healthcare is a lucrative one. However, in the name of doing business, a sensitive service sector must not be too commercialised to make a basic right of people go beyond affordability.
- Suman Khanal, Bansbari
Favouritism for jobs
There are a couple of domestic airlines operating in Nepal. However, as far as I know, I have not seen a single vacancy announcement by any private airline for recruitment of pilots or co-pilots. I suppose, hiring is done based on favouritism and nepotism and it is extremely difficult for freshers with little connection to land a job. The situation looks bleak for those who afford pilot training by borrowing tall loans. It seems it is impossible to secure a job without knowing someone in power.
- Roshan Jha, Via web
Rise of Chinese Industries
China has managed outbound investments in the competitive sector of IT and telecommunications. Huawei and ZTE have come up as one of the largest Chinese multinational tech companies. China is increasingly developing as a strong capitalist economy. The rise of the private sector there is encouraging. Similarly, in the financial sector, four Chinese banks have emerged as the world’s largest financial institutions. This growth shows that China is emerging as a strong economy and also as a strong base for the private sector.
- Sangam Dhakal, Tikathali
