Adolescents and Youth in Nepal

Ram H. Aryal, National Planning Commission

Nepal is faced with its largest adolescents and youth because of its high fertility over the last few decades and its very recent fertility decline. The data analyzed here come from the census 2001, Nepal DHS, 2001 and NAYA Survey, 2000. One fourth of total population is adolescents, one fifth youth and one third young. Still over fifty percent females and 14 percent males have not had formal education. There has been a gradual increase in the proportion of both males and females never married. The contraceptive use rate is low among these groups. Among youth 34 percent is in need of family planning services. For overall development of these people, there is a need of universal education, improved quality of life, equitable opportunities, access to health care, confidential counseling and information services. Understanding and supportive parents are also essential for them to develop their critical period of their life.