Chief District Officer of Dolpa, Junu Hamal Dhakal, has successfully conducted elections despite the region’s remote geography and limited resources. She pursued postgraduate studies in public policy through the Australia Awards scholarship and chose to serve her homeland. Hamal, originally from Jumla, encouraged the youth of Karnali to seek opportunities within their own region, supported by family and self-confidence. 29 Chaitra, Dolpa.
Amidst the challenging terrain of the Himalayas, administrative difficulties, and scarce opportunities, Junu Hamal Dhakal leads Dolpa’s administration. Her journey is not merely a tale of reaching a government position but an inspirational life story of a Karnali daughter shaped by struggle, confidence, and family support. Reflecting on her childhood in Jumla, she shared, “I am a daughter of Jumla. My official documents still list Jumla as my permanent address. Now, I serve as Chief District Officer in Dolpa, but my identity remains that of a Karnali daughter.”
She spent her early years in Jumla, at a time when it was customary to send sons to better schools and daughters to government schools. However, her parents provided equal opportunities to their four daughters and one son. Despite financial hardships, she attended a quality English medium school in Jumla. This family philosophy laid the foundation for her future. Due to her strong academic performance, her family wished for her to become a doctor, but Hamal had different aspirations. From an early age, she dreamed of achieving simple yet meaningful success. Although she completed Plus Two in science and graduated in biochemistry, her interest gravitated toward public service. In the absence of public service preparation resources in Karnali, she self-studied in Jumla and traveled to Kathmandu only for exams. “I passed written exams for most of the services I applied to,” she noted.
Ultimately, in 2069 BS, she joined the civil service as a Branch Officer. Alongside her government service, she managed family responsibilities. Balancing marriage, children, and career, she gained experience working in various districts and ministries. During this period, she also established her credentials internationally. Winning the prestigious Australia Awards scholarship, she studied public policy in Canberra. This journey from a remote village in Jumla to a developed educational environment globally broadened her outlook on life.
According to Hamal, one must view life with a broad perspective rather than magnifying difficulties. “Even great pain appears small when seen in the context of the world. One must learn to stay strong,” she said. Despite attractive opportunities and study abroad programs, she chose to return home for service. She recounted declining a scholarship for advanced study in South Korea, saying, “It was not just achievements, but life balance, social contribution, and the desire to work in my own place that motivated me forward.”
Currently serving as Chief District Officer in Dolpa, she considers the three months spent working there the most satisfying period of her life. Conducting elections amid remote geography, limited resources, and harsh winter conditions was a significant test. Especially in remote areas like Upper Dolpa, where management challenges are considerable, she successfully fulfilled her responsibilities. “After arriving in Dolpa, I experienced its beauty and warmth closely. This is the happiest time of my career,” she shared. She attributes her success primarily to her family’s support. The encouragement of her parents, husband, and in-laws made progress easier. “When a daughter, daughter-in-law, or wife has family support, she can reach far,” she remarked. Hamal urged Karnali’s youth, particularly girls, to explore opportunities locally. “Going abroad is not the ultimate solution. There are opportunities here too. One must believe in oneself, work hard, and love their own land,” she emphasized. Junu Hamal Dhakal’s journey from a simple girl in Jumla to Chief District Officer in Dolpa serves as an inspiring message to thousands of Karnali youths—big dreams are reachable with confidence and perseverance.
