TechPaaila expands to Pokhara, calls for AI and IT jobs to curb Youth Migration

Pokhara – TechPaaila Innovations has officially launched its Gandaki Province office in Pokhara, with industry leaders emphasizing the urgent need to expand employment opportunities in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Information Technology (IT) to help address Nepal’s growing youth migration trend.

The office was inaugurated by former President of the Nepal Chamber of Commerce, Mr. Rajendra Malla, who said AI and information technology have become key drivers of economic growth, digital transformation, and job creation worldwide. Speaking at the event, Mr. Malla stressed that Nepal must accelerate policy reforms, research initiatives, and the development of skilled professionals to remain competitive in the rapidly evolving digital economy.

He highlighted the need to create an environment where young people can “earn, learn, and grow” within Nepal rather than seeking opportunities abroad immediately after completing their education. Mr. Malla also suggested establishing AI computing centers to provide students, startups, and entrepreneurs with access to advanced technologies. He noted that such initiatives could help position Nepal as a digital hub in South Asia and praised TechPaaila Innovations Associate Director Mr. Chiranjibi Adhikari for promoting a nationwide “Skills-First” approach.

Addressing the gathering, Acting President of the Federation of Computer Association Nepal (CAN Federation) and Associate Director of TechPaaila Innovations, Mr. Chiranjibi Adhikari, emphasized that practical skills are now more important than certificates in today’s technology-driven world. He said TechPaaila has introduced market-oriented courses in AI, Cybersecurity, and Data Science to prepare professionals for the demands of the modern workforce.

“Understanding AI alone is not enough,” Mr. Adhikari said. “The future workforce must also be capable of managing cyber risks and making secure, data-driven decisions. Nepal needs to prioritize both the digital economy and the AI economy to retain talent, encourage innovation, and create high-value employment opportunities.”

Speaking at the event, Softed Group Chairperson Mr. Bigyan Shrestha called on the government to provide tax rebates and special incentives for startups working on AI technologies and local innovation. He reaffirmed Softed Group’s commitment to providing quality and practical education that enhances the capabilities of Nepal’s youth.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by several prominent figures from Nepal’s technology sector, including CAN Federation Kaski President Mr. Purushottam Kunwar, ICT leader Mr. Jagan Gurung, CAN Federation Central Executive Members Mr. Chintamani Bastola and Mr. Khadka Bahadur Gurung, CAN Federation Gandaki President Mr. Gunanidhi (GN) Pandey, and Softwarica College Principal Mr. Pramod Poudel.

The event drew strong participation from technology entrepreneurs, policymakers, educators, students, and parents. Organizers expressed confidence that the expansion of TechPaaila Innovations into Gandaki Province will contribute to skill development, innovation, and employment generation while creating more opportunities for young Nepalese to build their careers within the country.