Challenges and Opportunities in the Academic and Professional Work of Public Health Professionals in Nepal: A Reflexive Thematic Analysis

Background Public health professionals constitute a critical component of health systems, but their ability to apply knowledge effectively across sectors is often constrained. Persistent issues such as inadequate training, limited career opportunities, and job dissatisfaction undermine workforce effectiveness and retention globally. In Nepal, these challenges are compounded by weak alignment between academic preparation and professional realities, creating barriers for graduates and professionals to thrive within the health system. Methods Qualitative reflexive thematic analysis (RTA) was used to understand the educational and career experiences of public health professionals in Nepal. Guided by principles of information power, we recruited 18 participants via purposive and snowball sampling, and semi-structured interviews were conducted. Results Through reflexive engagement, we constructed six key themes: (1) navigating a narrow job market, (2) struggling with practical gaps, (3) barriers to job placement, (4) foundations misaligned with practice, (5) overcoming challenges, and (6) hope and future vision. The participants reported a saturated and uncertain job market, limited mentorship, inadequate practical training, nepotistic recruitment practices, and curricula misaligned with contemporary public health practices. These factors constrain employability and career satisfaction, often prompting additional study or career shifts. Despite systemic barriers, participants expressed cautious optimism that MEC-led reforms, including standardized entrance examinations and integrated scholarships, together with potential vacancies at local government levels, could enhance education, improve workforce retention, and create meaningful professional roles in Nepal. This study emphasizes the role of researcher reflexivity, as RTAs focus on interpreting meaning in context. Conclusions This study highlights the urgent need to realign Nepal’s public health education with professional realities. Strengthening curricula with practical, competency-based training, integrating modern technologies, providing mentorship and field exposure, and ensuring transparent employment and supportive policies can empower public health graduates and professionals. Such reforms enhance workforce resilience, career satisfaction, and professional identity, ultimately strengthening public health capacity to improve population health outcomes in resource-constrained contexts.