Impact of Climate Change on Career Pathway Choices of Youth in Nepal

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dc.contributor.authorPoudel, Sonikaen
dc.contributor.committeechairCrowder, Loy Vanen
dc.contributor.committeememberKhanal, Subodhen
dc.contributor.committeememberKaufman, Eric K.en
dc.contributor.departmentAgricultural, Leadership, and Community Educationen
dc.date.accessioned2025-09-13T08:00:35Zen
dc.date.available2025-09-13T08:00:35Zen
dc.date.issued2025-09-12en
dc.description.abstractThis study explores how climate change influences the decision-making processes regarding career pathways of undergraduate students enrolled in agricultural science degree programs at Gauradaha Agriculture Campus, Nepal. Using a qualitative approach, 14 participants were interviewed to understand their perceptions of climate change, its observed effects on agriculture, and the implications for career planning. Thematic analysis revealed four themes: (1) Climate Change as a Lived Disruption to Youth, (2) Shifts in Students' Career Interests, (3) Gaps in Agricultural Education, and (4) Expanding Opportunities Through Policy Support. The findings revealed that climate change is impacting how young people perceive agriculture as an occupation. Interview subjects revealed that climate change negatively impacts their perceptions of traditional farming careers while creating positive interest in research, technology, and alternative opportunities. The recommendations include practical and climate-focused education, better institutional support, and risk mitigation support from the government.en
dc.description.abstractgeneralAgriculture is an important part of Nepal's economy; however, the effects of climate change, like changing weather patterns and climate-induced disasters, are making farming harder and less predictable. To understand how this affects young people, interviews were conducted with 14 students at Gauradaha Agriculture Campus, Nepal. The conversations revealed that many students no longer see traditional farming as a secure future. Instead, they are interested in careers that focus on research, technology, and climate solutions. However, students also face challenges, including a lack of practical training and limited job opportunities in agriculture. The study suggests that schools and universities should offer more hands-on learning experiences related to the impacts of climate change on agriculture. It also recommends that the government create better support systems and policies that reduce financial risks and open up new opportunities for graduates.en
dc.description.degreeMaster of Science in Life Sciencesen
dc.format.mediumETDen
dc.identifier.othervt_gsexam:44633en
dc.identifier.urihttps://hdl.handle.net/10919/137779en
dc.language.isoenen
dc.publisherVirginia Techen
dc.rightsCreative Commons Attribution 4.0 Internationalen
dc.rights.urihttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/en
dc.subjectAgricultureen
dc.subjectCareeren
dc.subjectClimate Changeen
dc.subjectEducationen
dc.subjectNepalen
dc.subjectSustainabilityen
dc.subjectYouthen
dc.titleImpact of Climate Change on Career Pathway Choices of Youth in Nepalen
dc.typeThesisen
thesis.degree.disciplineAgricultural and Extension Educationen
thesis.degree.grantorVirginia Polytechnic Institute and State Universityen
thesis.degree.levelmastersen
thesis.degree.nameMaster of Science in Life Sciencesen

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