New vice-chancellors appointed at four health science institutions

Nepal Health News, Kathmandu  Four of Nepal’s major health science institutions have now come under new leadership.

Prime Minister and Chancellor KP Sharma Oli completed the process of appointing new Vice-Chancellors (VCs) on Monday, entrusting experienced doctors and professors with the leadership of the Pokhara, Dharan, Patan, and Karnali health science institutions.

List of New Appointments:

• BP Koirala Institute of Health Sciences, Dharan – Prof. Dr. Bikram Prasad Shrestha

• Patan Academy of Health Sciences, Lalitpur – Prof. Dr. Buddhi Paudel

• Pokhara Academy of Health Sciences, Kaski – Prof. Dr. Bharat Bahadur Khatri

• Karnali Academy of Health Sciences, Jumla – Dr. Pujan Kumar Rokaya

Prof. Dr. Bikram Prasad Shrestha, appointed to BP Koirala Institute of Health Sciences in Dharan, is a well-known figure. With over two decades of experience in internal medicine and academic management, he has previously held various administrative positions at the institute and has been involved in reform initiatives.

Similarly, Prof. Dr. Buddhi Paudel, appointed to Patan Academy of Health Sciences, has gained international recognition for his work in public health and epidemiology. He has been affiliated with Patan Hospital for the past 15 years, contributing to teaching, research, and hospital administration.

Prof. Dr. Bharat Bahadur Khatri, now heading the Pokhara Academy of Health Sciences, is regarded as an expert in surgery and medical leadership. After receiving his appointment letter, he expressed a commitment to transforming Pokhara into a hub for "medical tourism."

The newly appointed Vice-Chancellor of Karnali Academy of Health Sciences in Jumla, Prof. Dr. Pujan Kumar Rokaya, is a native of the Karnali region. He has long been active in rural health services and human resource development.

A search committee led by Health and Population Minister Pradeep Paudel prepared the list of nominees starting from Ashad 4 (mid-June). The committee included Health Ministry Secretary Dr. Bikash Devkota and National Planning Commission member Dr. RP Bichha as members.

Significance of the Vice-Chancellor Role

Vice-Chancellors of health science institutions are not just heads of academic institutions—they also play a direct role in influencing national health policy. They are expected to take decisive steps in areas such as medical education quality, improving rural healthcare access, investing in research, and building international partnerships.

All four newly appointed VCs are experienced and seem committed to institutional reform. However, their effectiveness will largely depend on their ability to mobilize resources and manage political interference.