Rajan Poudel: From Humble Beginnings to Leading Change in Public Service

“I studied in government schools – humble institutions with minimal resources but abundant determination. These schools became the crucibles where my passion for education was ignited. The dusty classrooms and the unpolished desks were, to me, gateways to a world of possibilities”

Rajan Poudel, Director General of the Department of Commerce, Supplies and Consumer Protection, has had a remarkable journey shaped by a deep connection to his roots and a passion for service. Born in Itahari, his early years were greatly influenced by his father, a dedicated Nepali language teacher who instilled in him the values of curiosity, perseverance and humility. His childhood, divided between the bustling plains of Sunsari and the serene hills of Panchthar, laid the foundation for his lifelong commitment to education, hard work and community.

Poudel’s academic journey began in government schools that, despite limited resources, nurtured his love for education. His fascination with science, especially physics, was ignited by an inspiring teacher during his school years. This passion led him to pursue a degree in physics, first in Biratnagar and later in Kirtipur where he completed his MSc. Alongside his studies, he embraced the role of an educator, teaching physics at Dhankuta Multiple Campus, an experience that profoundly shaped his understanding of leadership, communication and empathy.

Driven by a desire to make a broader impact, Poudel transitioned from academia to public administration. His initial roles in the Ministry of Tourism and Ministry of Foreign Affairs offered him opportunities to contribute to initiatives like Visit Nepal 2020. These experiences broadened his perspective, honed his leadership skills, and reinforced his belief in the power of trust and collaboration. Today, as the Director General, Poudel continues to draw on his diverse experiences to lead with vision and integrity, committed to fostering positive change and empowering others.

In this issue of Business 360, Poudel shares about the five things that have impacted his life and work.

My father, my mentor

I was born in Itahari, a small town in Sunsari district of Nepal. Nestled in the eastern plains, Itahari is a bustling hub, known for its vibrant culture and diverse communities. My father, a dedicated Nepali language teacher, played an instrumental role in shaping my early years. He was not just my parent but also my first mentor, instilling in me a love for learning and a profound sense of curiosity about the world. Growing up in Sunsari, surrounded by the simplicity and challenges of rural life, laid a solid foundation for the values I hold dear today: humility, perseverance, and resilience.

When I was young, my family moved to Panchthar, a picturesque hill district where I attended primary school. The environment in Panchthar was vastly different from the plains of Sunsari. Life was slower, more connected to nature and deeply rooted in community. I studied in government schools – humble institutions with minimal resources but abundant determination. These schools became the crucibles where my passion for education was ignited. The dusty classrooms and the unpolished desks were, to me, gateways to a world of possibilities.

My father’s influence was profound. He often told me, ‘Knowledge is the greatest wealth’, a mantra that shaped my approach to learning. He encouraged me to explore beyond textbooks, to ask questions, and to never fear failure.

My childhood in Sunsari and Panchthar was marked by a sense of purpose, though it was simple: to learn, grow and contribute meaningfully to the lives of others. These early years taught me the value of curiosity and laid the groundwork for the chapters that would follow.

Love for physics

My fascination with science began in eighth grade, thanks to an inspiring teacher, Yadu Nath Guragain. He had an uncanny ability to make complex concepts seem accessible and exciting. Under his guidance, I developed an early love for physics, drawn to its elegance and practicality. Physics was not merely a subject to me; it was a lens through which I could make sense of the world around me. This initial spark grew into a burning passion as I continued my studies.

After completing my SLC exams, I pursued my undergraduate degree in physics in Biratnagar, a decision that would shape the trajectory of my life. Biratnagar was a unique place, where academic rigour coexisted with an emphasis on sustainability and community. Most of us, including the faculty, cycled to campus, not out of necessity but as a conscious choice to embrace simplicity and reduce our carbon footprint. This culture left an indelible mark on me, teaching me the importance of humility and the collective effort required for societal progress.

The years in Biratnagar were challenging yet rewarding. The study of physics demanded not only intellectual effort but also creativity and persistence. My professors were exceptional mentors, who encouraged me to think beyond the classroom. Their dedication inspired me to push my limits and pursue excellence in every endeavour.

Later, I pursued my MSc in physics at Kirtipur. The transition from a smaller institution to a larger university was daunting but exhilarating. Here, I immersed myself in advanced theoretical concepts and research, honing my analytical and problem-solving skills. Beyond academics, my time in Kirtipur was transformative in other ways. It was during this period that I took my first steps into teaching, working as a physics lecturer at Dhankuta Multiple Campus.

Teaching was more than a job; it was a calling. Standing before a classroom filled with eager students, I felt a profound sense of responsibility. It was my opportunity to pass on the knowledge and values that had shaped my own journey. Teaching not only deepened my understanding of physics but also taught me the importance of communication, empathy and adaptability.

Shift from academia to administration

After several fulfilling years in academia, I began to feel the pull of a broader purpose. While teaching allowed me to influence individual lives, I yearned to make an impact on a larger scale. This aspiration led me to explore the world of public administration. Initially, I took the Tribhuvan University service exam, and later the Section Officer exam, both of which I passed successfully. These milestones marked the beginning of my transition from academia to the government sector.

My first roles in public administration were in the Ministry of Tourism and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, where I contributed to initiatives like the Visit Nepal 2020 campaign. Collaborating with visionary leaders like Suraj Vaidya was an eye-opening experience. Unlike the structured environment of academia, government work demanded a unique blend of diplomacy, strategy and interpersonal skills. It was here that I learned one of the most important lessons of my career: the value of trust within organisations.

Vaidya often emphasised that while government systems are built on rules and regulations, true success comes from building trust among team members, which is emphasised in the private organisations. This principle resonated deeply with me and became a cornerstone of my leadership philosophy. I began to see my role not just as an administrator but as a facilitator of trust and collaboration.

The shift from academia to administration was not without its challenges. I had to navigate a steep learning curve, adapting to the complexities of policy-making, stakeholder engagement and resource management. Yet, these challenges also presented opportunities for growth. Each day brought new lessons, shaping me into a more resilient and dynamic leader.

The people around me

Throughout my journey, my family has been my greatest source of inspiration. My father, with his unwavering dedication to education, taught me the value of hard work and integrity. My uncles, who were always engaged in social work, encouraged me to contribute to the greater good. Their belief in me was a constant source of strength, especially during moments of doubt.

My teachers also played a pivotal role in shaping my character and aspirations. I still remember my Nepali teacher in school, who encouraged us to read widely and think critically. His advice to always seek knowledge beyond textbooks left a lasting impression on me. Similarly, my mentors in college and university challenged me to push boundaries, fostering a growth mindset that has guided me ever since.

Beyond family and teachers, I have been fortunate to work alongside remarkable colleagues and leaders. Their insights and experiences have enriched my own, teaching me the importance of collaboration and humility. These relationships have been invaluable, serving as a constant reminder that no journey is undertaken alone.

Gratitude

One of the most significant transformations in my journey has been the shift from individual contributor to team leader. As a lecturer at Dhankuta Campus, my success was defined by my ability to connect with students and deliver impactful lessons. It was a deeply personal endeavour, where my efforts directly influenced outcomes.

In contrast, my roles in public administration required a completely different approach. Success was no longer about individual achievements but about collective progress. As I took on leadership roles, I realised the importance of empowering others. Delegating responsibilities, building trust and fostering a sense of shared purpose became essential to achieving our goals.

As a teacher in the initial phase of my career, I have had the privilege of having an impact on hundreds of lives. This responsibility has been both humbling and motivating. It has taught me that leadership is not about authority but about service. It is about creating an environment where individuals can thrive and contribute their best.

Looking back, each phase of my life has been a stepping stone to the next. From the classrooms of Dhankuta to the administrative offices of the public sector, every experience has shaped me into the person I am today. The lessons I have learned, the people I have met, and the challenges I have faced continue to inspire me as I move forward.

Every individual’s life is a tapestry of experiences, woven together by the people they meet and the lessons they learn. The guiding principles for me in my life have been curiosity, ambition, trust, inspiration and teamwork. Each chapter has been a journey of growth, shaped by the values instilled in me by my family, mentors and colleagues.

As I reflect on my journey, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunities I have had and the people who have supported me along the way. These experiences have not only defined who I am but also continue to guide me as I strive to make a meaningful impact in the world. With each new challenge, I am reminded of my roots in Sunsari and the enduring lessons of humility, perseverance and service that have shaped my path.