The Sahid Dasharath Chand Health Science University, which remained stalled for a long time despite the completion of physical infrastructure in Geta, Kailali, is finally set to commence academic programs in the upcoming session.
The new government has prioritized the necessary budget and legal procedures, raising hopes that teaching and learning will begin soon. The university, established by the Government of Nepal through a Cabinet decision on Magh 29, 2080 BS, spans approximately 51 hectares and has already received over NPR 8 billion in investment, with 42 buildings constructed. However, the Sahid Dasharath Chand National Health Science University Bill had been pending for the past two years in the Education, Health, and Information Technology Committee of the House of Representatives.
According to the university, it has already proposed to run four medical programs, including Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS), BSc Nursing, Bachelor of Optometry (B. Optom) and BSc Medical Laboratory Technology ( BSc MLT). Once the seats for the programs are allocated by the Medical Education Commission, the university will run all these programs in the upcoming session. Dr. Anand Bahadur Chand, Member of Parliament(MP) from Kailali Constituency No. 5, expressed confidence that the university will start operations this academic session. He said the government plans to initiate educational programs in Geta and expand hospital services, with about 50 students expected to be enrolled initially in MBBS or other medical programs. He added that Prime Minister Balendra Shah has shown keen interest in the university’s operation and the necessary budget has been arranged.
Khem Raj Koirala, MP for Kailali Constituency No. 4, confirmed that NPR 2.58 billion has been secured to immediately operationalize the university, with the Prime Minister committed to advancing its work without delay. Previously, the provincial government approved the university's affiliation with Tikapur Hospital, Mahakali Hospital, and Seti Province Hospital.
Vice-Chancellor Pradeep Sunil Kumar Joshi stated that preparations are underway to start teaching in four faculties from the new academic session. He also mentioned that an important meeting will soon be held to discuss university rules, operational procedures, financial regulations, and other procedural matters.
