🚀💡 International Youth Day 2025 💡🚀 Theme: “Localization of SDGs” 🌍
Each year, International Youth Day is celebrated globally to recognize the power, potential, and contributions of young people toward building a better future. The 2025 theme, “Localization of SDGs”, emphasized the importance of taking the global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and turning them into actionable steps within local communities. On this special occasion, the Nepal Youth Council (NYC) proudly organized a one-day workshop titled “NextGen AI: Career Pathways for Youth” at Kathmandu BernHardt College.
The program brought together around 70 enthusiastic youth participants from diverse backgrounds, all eager to explore the intersection between technological innovation and sustainable development. The workshop provided an engaging platform to learn, share, and discuss how young people can position themselves for success in the rapidly evolving fields of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and innovation, while also contributing to the SDGs at a grassroots level.
🌟 Opening Session: Linking AI with the SDGs
The program began with an inspiring opening session led by Mr. Saroj Baniya, Founder and President of Nepal Youth Council. In his address, he spoke passionately about the importance of the SDGs, highlighting how they serve as a shared blueprint for peace, prosperity, and sustainability. He emphasized that the youth of Nepal are not just future leaders but active change-makers in the present.
Mr. Baniya stressed the significance of localizing the SDGs—adapting global targets to fit the unique needs and challenges of Nepal’s communities. From climate action to quality education and decent work opportunities, he explained that meaningful change begins at the community level, where young people can directly implement solutions that improve lives.
He also pointed out how emerging technologies like AI can accelerate progress toward achieving the SDGs. Whether it’s using AI for better climate data analysis, improving agricultural productivity, or enhancing education through digital learning tools, technology can be a powerful catalyst for sustainable development when guided by ethical and inclusive practices.
💡 Keynote Session: Insights from an AI Innovator
The highlight of the workshop was the keynote session by Mr. Darshan Parajuli, Founder of Teach Me AI. With a wealth of knowledge and practical experience in the AI field, Mr. Parajuli delivered an engaging and insightful talk on the career opportunities available in AI and innovation sectors.
He explained the fundamentals of AI, demystifying common misconceptions, and showcased real-world examples of AI applications in various industries such as healthcare, finance, agriculture, and education. He also addressed the growing demand for AI-skilled professionals worldwide and the importance of building both technical expertise and soft skills to remain competitive in the future job market.
In addition, Mr. Parajuli encouraged participants to think creatively about using AI to address local problems in Nepal. He discussed how AI could be integrated into community-based projects to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and create impactful solutions aligned with the SDGs.
👥 Youth Engagement and Interaction
The workshop was designed to be interactive, allowing participants to engage directly with the speakers, ask questions, and share their own perspectives on AI and sustainable development. Breakout discussions encouraged youth to brainstorm project ideas that combined AI-driven solutions with SDG targets, such as using data analytics for better waste management or creating mobile apps that promote quality education.
This participatory approach helped attendees see themselves as active contributors rather than passive learners. It reinforced the idea that technology is not just for tech experts—with the right mindset and willingness to learn, anyone can leverage innovation to create social impact.
🌱 Connecting AI Careers with Sustainable Futures
One of the core messages of the workshop was the interdependence between career growth and social responsibility. By pursuing careers in AI and innovation, young people can not only secure promising professional futures but also contribute meaningfully to solving the pressing challenges of our time.
Both Mr. Baniya and Mr. Parajuli stressed that the localization of SDGs means tailoring global solutions to local realities. This requires innovation, adaptability, and the involvement of youth as innovators, advocates, and leaders.
🙌 Gratitude and the Way Forward
The Nepal Youth Council extends its heartfelt thanks to Kathmandu BernHardt College for hosting the event, to Mr. Darshan Parajuli for sharing his expertise, and to all the youth participants whose energy and enthusiasm made the workshop a success.
This event was more than just a learning platform—it was a step toward building a tech-savvy, socially responsible generation of Nepali youth ready to tackle both local and global challenges.
As we move forward, NYC remains committed to creating opportunities that empower young people to embrace innovation, champion the SDGs, and contribute to the development of their communities. The future belongs to those who are ready to adapt, innovate, and act—and our youth are leading the way.
