In a symbolic yet deeply impactful demonstration of youth leadership and governance, Rijan GC from Makwanpur district has been elected as the Sample(Namuna) Youth Chief Minister during the Bagmati Provincial-level Mock Youth Parliament event held in Hetauda. The four-day event, which ran from Jestha 11–14, 2082, was organized by the Bagmati Province Youth Council.
With over 32 youth participants representing all 13 districts of Bagmati Province, the Mock Youth Parliament aimed to simulate the democratic processes of a provincial government, foster political literacy, and inspire a sense of public responsibility among young people.
An Assembly of Aspiring Leaders
The event brought together a diverse cohort of young individuals, each selected for their potential and commitment to civic engagement. Over the span of four days, these participants engaged in a hands-on experience that included drafting and debating legislation, presenting policies, proposing budgets, and undergoing leadership selection through democratic voting.
The primary goals of the program were to:
- Develop leadership skills in youth,
- Strengthen their understanding of state mechanisms,
- Encourage political and civic participation, and
- Empower young people to envision and practice governance.
“With 43.56% of our nation’s population consisting of youth, it is now their turn to shape the country’s future,” said Santosh Chaulagain, the Executive Vice-President of the Youth Council. “This event wasn’t just a mock session—it was a rehearsal for tomorrow’s real leadership.”
Election Results: A Mock Government is Formed
The highlight of the program was the election of a sample provincial government. Youth representatives contested various positions ranging from Chief Minister to Ministers of several departments. Through democratic voting and debate, a mock cabinet was successfully formed.
The key appointments were as follows:
- Youth Chief Minister: Rijan GC (Makwanpur)
- Speaker of the Parliament: Bishaya Paudel (Kavre)
- Deputy Speaker: Mahendra Tamang (Nuwakot)
- Provincial Head: Poonam Gautam (Chitwan)
Ministerial Positions:
- Finance and Planning Minister: Sheshkant Dahal (Sindhuli)
- Agriculture, Livestock, Water, Energy, and Irrigation Minister: Suman Shakya (Nuwakot)
- Internal Affairs and Law Minister: Asmi Dangol (Kathmandu)
- Physical Infrastructure Development Minister: Sanisch Nepali (Ramechhap)
- Youth, Sports, Health, and Social Development Minister: Asha Koirala (Dolakha)
- Labour, Employment, and Transport Minister: Sampurna Khatri (Dolakha)
According to Sunil Prasad Dulal, an official from the Youth Council, “Each of these young ministers demonstrated exceptional ability to understand complex policies and communicate their visions clearly. Their performance was no less than what we see in real parliamentary sessions.”
Beyond Simulation: Creating Real Impact
While this youth parliament was designed as a mock exercise, its implications are far-reaching. Participants not only learned about governance structures, parliamentary conduct, and legal frameworks, but also gained firsthand experience in consensus-building, negotiation, and leadership accountability.
“This was more than an educational event—it was an awakening,” said one of the participants. “We now understand how policies are built, budgets are passed, and how real decisions are made that affect people’s lives.”
Observers from various youth-focused organizations and educational institutions attended the event, expressing admiration for the professionalism and passion shown by the participants.
A Glimpse of Nepal’s Political Future
The successful conclusion of the event has sparked conversations around the importance of incorporating such programs at broader levels across all provinces. Organizers believe this format can serve as a blueprint for cultivating politically conscious and capable young citizens in Nepal.
The Bagmati Province Youth Council plans to replicate and expand such initiatives, potentially integrating more advanced simulations and mentorship from current political leaders and experts in governance.
With the resounding success of the Mock Youth Parliament, many now believe that if given the right platforms, resources, and support, Nepal’s youth could drive the nation toward more transparent, accountable, and innovative governance.
“The youth are not just the leaders of tomorrow,” Chaulagain emphasized, “they are the change-makers of today.”
