Marginalised communities’ barrier to tech

A brief exchange between a rideshare driver and a software engineer in Nepal revealed a persistent societal belief: that individuals from marginalized communities do not belong in the technology sector. The driver's surprised question, "When did people of your caste start learning tech?" underscored this invisible barrier that many young adults from disadvantaged backgrounds face before even starting their careers in coding.

“

I’m a software engineer.

While the tech sector is often perceived as meritocratic, this view overlooks the uneven playing field. Critical advantages such as early education, exposure to technology, confidence in English, and industry connections are not equally distributed. This disparity is evident in many government schools, where computer education remains limited, and computer labs are often underutilized. Even in private schools, fully equipped digital classrooms are scarce. For students without home access to computers or the internet, developing basic digital skills becomes a significant hurdle, leading to an overwhelming gap by the time they reach higher education.

“

When did people of your caste start learning tech?

Beyond tangible resources, confidence and a sense of belonging play crucial roles. Nepal's social structures, influenced by caste and class, can make entering the technology sector intimidating for young people from marginalized communities. The lack of role models, mentorship, and encouragement can lead them to believe these paths are not meant for them. Furthermore, the geographical concentration of tech companies and opportunities in Kathmandu presents another challenge. Relocating to the capital is financially prohibitive for many families, leaving capable and motivated individuals outside the valley disconnected from career-changing opportunities.

“

Not everyone starts from the same point.

A software engineer from Morang shared that early opportunities outside Kathmandu were scarce. Their learning primarily came from informal guidance and small training sessions, with limited access to structured internships or clear career path information. The absence of local networking opportunities and tech communities further compounded these challenges, hindering their professional development.

“

For many young people from marginalised communities, entering the technology sector can feel intimidating.