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

This 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.

Name thesis:degree_name

Master of Science in Life Sciences

Level thesis:degree_level

masters

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Agricultural and Extension Education

Department dc:contributor.department

Agricultural, Leadership, and Community Education

Grantor dc:publisher

Virginia Tech

Year dc:date.issued

2025

Author dc:creator

• Poudel, Sonika

Chair dc:contributor.committeechair

• Crowder, Loy Van

Committee members dc:contributor.committeemember

• Khanal, Subodh
• Kaufman, Eric K.

• Agriculture
• Career
• Climate Change
• Education
• Nepal
• Sustainability
• Youth

Statement dc:rights

• Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International

Licence dc:rights.uri

• http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Language dc:language.iso

en

Dc Identifier Other

vt_gsexam:44633

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:vtechworks.lib.vt.edu:10919/137779