Some 18,451 Nepalis applied at four Employment Permit System (EPS) centres to sit for Test of Proficiency in Korean — a gateway to their dream-job — in the world fifth largest economy.

“Some 18,451 submitted their applications in four centers in Kathmandu (Gaushala and Kritipur), Lalitpur (Chyasal) and Butwal,” said Chandra Man Shrestha, director general of Department of Foreign Employment that has projected around 60,000 applications for Test of Proficiency in Korean for job in South Korea. “I spent four hours in queue,” said Hari Shankar Thakur (28) from Janakpur.

Decentralisation of EPS application centres has made it easier to apply for the test this time compared to last years.

Earlier in 2008 and 2010, Kathmandu traffic had been disrupted for two days due to long queues outside Dashrath Stadium — the only centre then to apply.

South Korea is a lucrative destination for Nepalis as EPS employees are entitled to get $1,000 (Rs 70,000) per month.

The earning is five times more than other popular destinations like Malaysia and Gulf countries.

EPS job-aspirants have to spent $940 (Rs 65,000) — including $24 for Test of Proficiency in Korean fee making it cheaper than Malaysia that costs Rs 80,000 and Gulf countries that cost Rs 70,000.

EPS Nepal under Department of Foreign Employment is planning Test of Proficiency in Korean on July 22 and 23 and publish the results on August 23.

According to the schedule, the new roster of EPS 2011 will be ready in October. The language test applicants should have to attempt 25 questions in listening and reading each, and secure 40 per cent marks in 200 to pass the test. However, selection is solely based on merit basis. Korea hires workers from many countries including from Nepal.

Published on: 3 May 2011 | The Himalayan Times