Private Colleges Seek Review of Medical Education Fees

Private Medical Colleges Seek Fee and Policy Reforms to Make Nepal a Medical Education Hub

The Association of Private Medical and Dental Colleges of Nepal has called on the government to review its policies and fee structure to develop Nepal into a regional hub for medical education.

The association claims that clear government policies, scientifically determined tuition fees and a supportive atmosphere for international students could help prevent billions of rupees from leaving the country annually while generating foreign currency earnings.

Unchanged Tuition Fees Affect Infrastructure Upgrades

According to private medical college operators, the cost of living, electricity, laboratory materials, and employee salaries and allowances has increased significantly since 2019. However, tuition fees for medical education have not been revised accordingly.

The association stated that the fees initially determined through a scientific study in 2020 have remained unchanged. It claimed that the absence of fee revisions has made it difficult for colleges to purchase modern medical equipment and upgrade their infrastructure.

Policy Restrictions Linked to Outflow of Billions of Rupees

In its official position paper, the association stated that private medical colleges have contributed significantly to producing a substantial share of the country's workforce and extending quality hospital services to remote districts.

However, college operators claimed that complicated government policies and restrictions on medical college seat allocations have compelled thousands of Nepali students to pursue medical education in countries such as India and Bangladesh.

They argued that these restrictions have contributed to the outflow of billions of rupees from Nepal.

Association's Key Recommendations

The association has submitted six major recommendations to the government as part of its proposed long-term solution. The recommendations outlined in the statement include:

• Immediately reviewing tuition fees based on scientific assessment.
• Increasing quotas for international students and creating an internationally competitive academic atmosphere.
• Determining student intake capacities according to the capabilities of individual colleges.
• Making regulatory procedures transparent and focused on educational quality.

The association also emphasized the need for coordination and cooperation between government agencies and the private sector to ensure quality medical education and practical healthcare services.