Inspiring the Next Generation of Women in Engineering

On 19th March 2026, Engineers Without Borders Nepal hosted a Women in Engineering guest speaker session and panel discussion at Kathmandu Pragya Kunja School in Mid Baneshwor. The event brought together students, young professionals, and experienced engineers for an afternoon of storytelling, reflection, and connection.

The session began with guest speaker Dr. Rojee Pradhananga, a transportation engineer, who shared her personal journey into engineering. She spoke candidly about the challenges she faced as a woman in a traditionally male-dominated field; navigating bias, building confidence, and finding her voice in professional spaces. Her story set a powerful tone for the event, emphasizing resilience, persistence, and the importance of staying committed to one’s path.

Following the keynote, a panel discussion featured Aastha Pandey (Environmental Planner), Astha Acharya (Civil Engineer), Palisha Shakya (Chemical Engineer), and Nitisha Kafle (Civil Engineer), moderated by Bijita Parajuli (Architect). Each panelist shared their own experiences which highlighted the obstacles they encountered and the strategies they used to overcome them.

A common thread throughout the discussion was the importance of mentorship, community, and self-belief. Panelists encouraged young women to pursue engineering with confidence, to seek out supportive networks, and to not be discouraged by setbacks. They also spoke about the evolving landscape of engineering in Nepal, noting both progress made and the work still needed to create more inclusive spaces.

The event concluded with a high tea session, where attendees gathered over tea, coffee, and sandwiches. This informal setting allowed for meaningful conversations, networking, and the continuation of discussions sparked during the panel.

Overall, the Women in Engineering event served as a reminder that while challenges remain, the growing community of women in engineering is strong, supportive, and ready to pave the way for future generations; be it in Nepal or across the world.