Kathmandu: The Ministry of Labour, Employment, and Social Security (MoLESS) of Nepal, the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), and the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance support for Nepali migrants, returnees, and their families. The agreement, signed on November 8, marks a significant step toward improving the lives of migrant workers and facilitating their smooth reintegration into society.

Under the partnership, KOICA and SDC will collaborate on several initiatives aimed at strengthening Nepal’s migration support systems. One of the key projects includes the development of a mobile app called HaMi (Happy Migration), designed to provide Nepali migrant workers and their families with crucial information on employment opportunities, financial literacy, and reintegration support. The app will serve as an accessible platform to guide migrants throughout various stages of their journey, from pre-departure to reintegration.

In addition to the app, KOICA and SDC will work to establish an integrated support system that offers assistance at every stage of migration, helping workers better navigate challenges and access essential resources. The initiative aims to provide comprehensive support for both outbound and returnee workers.

Kong Mooheon, Country Director of KOICA Nepal, emphasized the agency’s commitment to improving the quality of life for returnee workers and contributing to Nepal’s long-term sustainable development. “KOICA is dedicated to exploring diverse solutions that will enhance the reintegration process for returnees and help advance Nepal’s socioeconomic growth,” he stated.

The signing of the MoU also coincides with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Korea and Nepal, adding significant weight to the collaboration. The partnership is part of the Project for Strengthening Stage-Wise Support System for the Stable Reintegration of Korean Returnee Migrants in Nepal (K-HaMi Project), which aims to ensure the successful reintegration of Nepali migrant workers returning from South Korea.

The project is expected to have a lasting impact on Nepal’s migration policies and enhance the stability of migrant workers returning to the country. KOICA’s Nepal office plans to continue strengthening human networks between the two nations and lay the foundations for a stable and sustainable reintegration process for returnees.

This collaboration is a positive development for Nepal, highlighting the international commitment to supporting migrant workers and fostering a more inclusive approach to migration and development.