AMDA Institute of Health Science, Butwal

AMDA Institute of Health Sciences (AIHS), located in Butwal, Rupandehi, Nepal, is an emerging academic institution dedicated to producing qualified health professionals. Affiliated with the Council for Technical Education and Vocational Training (CTEVT), AIHS was established in 2023 by AMDA-Nepal, an extension of the international humanitarian organization AMDA-International (Japan). This initiative strengthens Nepal’s healthcare workforce by focusing on mid-level medical education through affordable, accessible, and community-centered training.

The institute is closely integrated with Siddhartha Children and Women Hospital, providing students with hands-on experience in a real healthcare setting. AIHS runs three main programs: PCL Nursing, Diploma in Pharmacy, and PCL in General Medicine (Health Assistant), each accommodating 40 students annually.

Institutional Background

AMDA-Nepal has been active since 1989, working to improve public health, especially for underserved populations. The organization's motto is "Better Quality of Life for a Better Future. "AIHS's educational model reflects its long-standing commitment to public health. One of its major projects, Siddhartha Children and Women Hospital, serves as the core practical training ground for AIHS students.

The foundation of AIHS in 2023 marks a strategic development in AMDA-Nepal’s journey, from service delivery to education. The institute’s location in Butwal ensures that students from Lumbini Province and surrounding regions access relevant technical education in healthcare.

Academic Programs Offered

1. PCL Nursing (Staff Nurse)

• Seats Available: 40 (4 scholarships)

• Affiliation: CTEVT

• Duration: 3 years

• Recognition: Nepal Nursing Council

This program prepares students to work as registered staff nurses in hospitals, clinics, and community health settings. Students undergo theoretical and practical learning across medical-surgical, maternal health, child care, and public health domains. The inclusion of regular clinical rotations helps students apply what they learn in real-time.

2. Diploma in Pharmacy

• Seats Available: 40 (4 scholarships)

• Affiliation: CTEVT

• Duration: 3 years

• Recognition: Nepal Pharmacy Council

This course focuses on developing students’ competence in pharmacy services. It includes drug dispensing, pharmacology, toxicology, community pharmacy practices, and medical ethics training. The curriculum is based on national guidelines and aligns with the requirements of both hospitals and retail pharmaceutical services.

3. PCL in General Medicine (Health Assistant)

• Seats Available: 40 (4 scholarships)

• Affiliation: CTEVT

• Duration: 3 years

• Recognition: Nepal Health Professional Council

The Health Assistant program covers general medical sciences, diagnostics, minor surgeries, public health, and emergency care. Graduates can work at health posts, primary healthcare centers, or alongside doctors in rural and urban settings. The training provided at Siddhartha Hospital offers significant practical exposure.

Entry Requirements and Admission Process

To apply for any of the above programs, students must meet the following criteria:

• Educational Background: Minimum qualification of SEE (Secondary Education Examination) or SLC with a GPA of 2.0 and a ‘C’ grade in Compulsory Mathematics, Science, and English.

• Documentation: Valid copies of SEE/SLC mark sheets, character certificate, and citizenship or birth certificate.

• Entrance Examination: Applicants must pass the entrance exam conducted by CTEVT. The merit list prepared from exam scores determines final selection.

Affiliation, Recognition, and Accreditation

AIHS operates under the supervision of CTEVT and is fully recognized by the following professional councils:

• Nepal Nursing Council (for PCL Nursing)

• Nepal Pharmacy Council (for Diploma in Pharmacy)

• Nepal Health Professional Council (for PCL in General Medicine)

These recognitions validate the academic and professional quality of AIHS's programs, making its graduates eligible to work in Nepal's public and private sectors.

Learning Environment and Academic Resources

The institute promotes a practical and student-focused learning environment. Key features include:

• Hospital-Based Training: Regular rotations and practical exposure at Siddhartha Children and Women's Hospital.

• Qualified Educators: Classes are led by trained faculty with field experience, ensuring students gain practical knowledge and theoretical clarity.

• Laboratories and Classrooms: Equipped laboratories, subject-specific resource rooms, and spacious classrooms facilitate skill-based learning.

• Library Access: A well-organized library with updated medical literature is accessible to all students.

Financial Considerations

AIHS provides an affordable education model. Compared to private institutions, its tuition structure is more accessible for students from diverse socio-economic backgrounds. Moreover:

• 20% fee reduction is available on regular tuition fees.

• Scholarship quotas (4 per program) support students from underprivileged or high-achieving backgrounds.

This makes AIHS a practical choice for students pursuing a career in health without high financial burdens.

Student Experience and Exposure

Through its integration with a functioning hospital and a seasoned healthcare NGO, AIHS offers a learning atmosphere grounded in real-world service. Students benefit from:

• Community Interaction: Exposure to patients from different backgrounds improves communication and adaptability.

• Team Collaboration: Students regularly work in groups during clinical rounds, promoting interpersonal skills and collaborative learning.

• Field Practice: Community-based learning modules provide experience beyond hospital walls.

Institutional Philosophy and Values

AIHS stands on four core pillars:

• Education: Promoting accessible healthcare education.

• Practice: Engaging students in real-time medical service.

• Research: Encouraging inquiry-driven learning and problem-solving.

• Community Development: Addressing public health gaps through educated interventions.

These values align with AMDA-Nepal’s goal of promoting public welfare, peace, and development by empowering healthcare professionals who can respond to Nepal’s unique challenges.

Conclusion

AMDA Institute of Health Sciences in Butwal is an educational hub for aspiring health professionals in Nepal. With structured programs, experienced instructors, and institutional support from AMDA-Nepal, it provides an ideal learning environment rooted in service. Its focus on quality, affordability, and practical exposure makes AIHS a solid choice for students aiming to contribute meaningfully to Nepal’s healthcare sector.