KATHMANDU, AUGUST 8

The US Embassy in Nepal has selected 55 young leaders from more than 1,600 applicants across the country for the 2026 cohort of the USYC Nepal programme.

The embassy hosted the launch session for the new cohort on Friday, where Chargé d’Affaires Scott Urbom congratulated the participants and underscored their role in promoting innovation, economic growth and positive change in their communities.

During their one-year tenure, the cohort members will develop leadership skills, establish connections with peers and industry experts, and prepare for future opportunities to contribute to Nepal’s development.

The embassy said the programme reflects the United States’ longstanding commitment to working with Nepal’s emerging leaders across a range of professional fields. As the US marks 250 years of independence, it said a more prosperous Nepal would create new opportunities for trade, innovation and long-term cooperation between the two countries.