The Karnali Academy of Health Sciences, Nepal (KAHS) was established in 2011 by an Act of the Nepalese Parliament in Jumla, a mid-western hilly region of Nepal. Its primary objectives are to provide healthcare services to the region, produce skilled health professionals, and conduct research in diverse settings. The academy aims to promote the health and well-being of Nepalese citizens, particularly those in Karnali Province and the far-western region of the country. Karnali Academy of Health Sciences (KAHS) is committed to producing knowledgeable, skilled, and socially responsible medical graduates who are motivated to deliver quality patient care.
Karnali Academy Of Health Sciences, Nepal Overview, Accreditations, Affiliations, Recognitions
To develop its MBBS curriculum, Karnali Academy of Health Sciences (KAHS) formed a dedicated Curriculum Development Committee comprising two core members. The committee undertook a thorough and milestone-driven process to design an appropriate medical curriculum for the MBBS program. In doing so, it extensively reviewed national and international medical curricula. Domestically, the committee examined the curricula of Kathmandu University School of Medical Sciences, Tribhuvan University Institute of Medicine, BP Koirala Institute of Health Sciences, and Patan Academy of Health Sciences.
Internationally, it referred to curricula from institutions such as the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (New Delhi), Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education & Research (Puducherry), Maharashtra University of Health Sciences, Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences (Karnataka), Sri Lakshmi Narayan Institute of Medical Sciences (Puducherry), Bangladesh Medical and Dental Council, and Oxford University. The curriculum has been designed in alignment with the standards set by the Nepal Medical Council. Aware that there is “no best way” but always “a better way,” Karnali Academy of Health Sciences (KAHS) is committed to continuously improving the curriculum as needed.
Affiliations And Recognitions
The academy has embraced recent innovations in medical education. The MBBS curriculum focuses on addressing common health problems prevalent in Nepal’s remote and hilly regions, such as Karnali. Key features include early clinical and community medicine exposure, evidence-based practice, an integrated teaching and learning approach, student-centered, self-directed learning, and significant community engagement. These strategies aim to produce competent and compassionate medical professionals tailored to the needs of the region.
The Karnali Academy of Health Sciences (KAHS), established on October 20, 2011, through an Act of Parliament, is a key institution in Nepal dedicated to providing quality healthcare services and medical education. Its primary mission is to address the healthcare needs of the Karnali region, one of the most underdeveloped and remote parts of Nepal. The region has historically faced challenges such as limited access to medical services, healthcare infrastructure, and trained healthcare professionals.
Karnali Academy of Health Sciences (KAHS) serves as both a healthcare provider and an academic institution. It was created to improve the delivery of healthcare services in the Karnali region while also ensuring the development of skilled medical professionals who can serve the region and other underserved areas of Nepal. The academy is owned and funded by the Nepal government, which demonstrates its commitment to improving public health in rural and remote areas.
Table of Contents
- Overview, Accreditations, Affiliations, Recognitions
- Advantages
- Healthcare And Education Integration
- Departments And Course Duration
- Facilities And Infrastructure
- Fee Structure
- Documents Required
- Eligibility Criteria
- Admission Process
- Benefits
- Privileges And Benefits For Indian Students
- FAQ’s
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Advantages Of Studying MBBS In Karnali Academy of Health Sciences, Nepal
The Karnali Academy of Health Sciences (KAHS) in Nepal has several advantages, including:
- Low fees: The MBBS fees at Karnali Academy of Health Sciences (KAHS) is very affordable.
- Teaching language: The mode of education in Karnali Academy of Health Sciences (KAHS) is English language.
- Diverse environment: Karnali Academy of Health Sciences (KAHS) is welcoming to foreign students from around the world.
- World Directory of Medical Schools: KAHS is listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools, which follows American standards for medical education.
- Community-based approach: Karnali Academy of Health Sciences KAHS’s community-based approach aims to provide access to scientifically sound and economically feasible healthcare.
- International faculty: Karnali Academy of Health Sciences (KAHS) has international faculty experts in basic sciences, clinical, public health, and nursing.
- Community health sciences: Community health sciences make up 25% of the MBBS curriculum at Karnali Academy of Health Sciences (KAHS).
- Teaching hospital: Karnali Academy of Health Sciences (KAHS) runs the government-owned Karnali Zonal hospital in Jumla district.
- Medical education and research: Karnali Academy of Health Sciences (KAHS) promotes quality healthcare services, medical education, and research in remote areas.
Healthcare And Education Integration
KAHS has also integrated healthcare with medical education and research. This ensures that healthcare professionals trained at the academy are not only equipped with medical knowledge but are also familiar with the challenges faced by rural and underserved populations. This approach is particularly significant for a region like Karnali, where healthcare needs differ from urban areas.
The academy offers undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in various healthcare disciplines, including medicine, nursing, pharmacy, and public health. Students are trained in both theoretical and practical aspects of healthcare, with an emphasis on serving communities in remote areas. By educating local students, KAHS aims to retain skilled healthcare professionals within the region, thereby addressing the shortage of medical personnel in the rural and mountainous areas of Nepal.
Community Impact
KAHS has made significant contributions to the overall health of the Karnali region. Its medical services and education programs are directly improving the quality of life for people living in this underserved area. The academy plays a crucial role in:
- Enhancing healthcare access: By providing more specialized medical services and training healthcare workers locally, Karnali Academy of Health Sciences (KAHS) has increased the availability of health services in the region.
- Developing local healthcare talent: Many of the healthcare workers trained at KAHS choose to serve in their home regions, contributing to the long-term improvement of the local healthcare infrastructure.
- Raising awareness: Karnali Academy of Health Sciences (KAHS) is also involved in health awareness campaigns, especially in rural communities, to educate people on preventable diseases, hygiene, and healthy lifestyles.
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Departments And Course Duration In Karnali Academy of Health Sciences,Nepal
Departments and MBBS Course Description at Karnali Academy of Health Sciences (KAHS)
1. Preclinical Departments
These departments focus on foundational medical sciences and the basic principles of medicine:
- Anatomy: Study of the human body’s structure and development.
- Physiology: Understanding the functions and mechanisms of the human body.
- Biochemistry: Exploration of chemical processes within living organisms.
2. Para-clinical Departments
These departments bridge basic sciences with clinical applications:
- Pharmacology: Study of drugs and their effects on the body.
- Pathology: Study of disease causes, mechanisms, and effects.
- Microbiology: Investigation of microorganisms and their role in health and disease.
- Forensic Medicine: Application of medical knowledge for legal purposes.
- Community Medicine: Public health concepts and addressing regional healthcare challenges.
- Clinical Departments
These focus on hands-on medical training and patient care:
- General Medicine: Diagnosis and management of adult diseases.
- General Surgery: Surgical principles and procedures.
- Obstetrics and Gynecology (OBG): Women’s health, pregnancy, and childbirth care.
- Pediatrics: Medical care for infants, children, and adolescents.
- Orthopedics: Study and treatment of musculoskeletal disorders.
- Ophthalmology: Eye-related health and diseases.
- Otorhinolaryngology (ENT): Diseases of the ear, nose, and throat.
- Dermatology: Skin disorders and treatments.
- Radiology: Imaging techniques for diagnosis and treatment.
- Psychiatry: Mental health and psychiatric disorders.
MBBS Course Duration at Karnali Academy of Health Sciences, Nepal
The MBBS program at KAHS follows the standards set by the Nepal Medical Council and spans 5.5 years, divided into:
- 4.5 Years of Academic Study:
- First 2 Years: Focus on preclinical subjects with basic medical sciences and introductory community medicine.
- Next 2.5 Years: Para-clinical subjects integrated with clinical exposure and practical training.
- 1 Year of Compulsory Internship:
- Hands-on training in hospitals, involving rotations in major clinical departments like Medicine, Surgery, Pediatrics, and OBG, ensuring students gain practical experience before independent practice.
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Facilities And Infrastructure In Karnali Academy Of Health Sciences, Nepal
Karnali Academy of Health Sciences (KAHS) is located in Jumla, a remote region in Nepal, and it plays a crucial role in providing medical education and healthcare services to the people of the Karnali region and beyond. Below is an overview of the facilities and infrastructure at KAHS:
1. Educational Facilities
- Medical College: KAHS operates a medical college that offers undergraduate programs such as the MBBS course, designed to produce doctors capable of addressing the health challenges in the Karnali region.
- Lecture Halls and Classrooms: The academy has well-equipped classrooms and lecture halls for students, with modern audio-visual aids to support teaching and learning.
- Library: The academy has a library stocked with a wide range of medical textbooks, journals, and other educational materials to support the learning needs of students.
- Hostels: On-campus hostel facilities are available for students, with separate accommodations for male and female students. These hostels are designed to provide a comfortable living environment.
2. Medical Facilities
- Teaching Hospital: KAHS has its own hospital, the Karnali Provincial Hospital, where students get practical exposure to medical cases under the supervision of experienced faculty. The hospital provides essential healthcare services to the local population and supports teaching, research, and clinical training for students.
- Clinical Labs: There are well-equipped clinical laboratories for students to practice various diagnostic tests, such as blood testing, microbiology, and pathology.
- OT (Operating Theatres): The teaching hospital has modern operating theatres for surgical procedures, which also serve as hands-on learning spaces for medical students.
- Emergency Services: The hospital offers emergency medical services, trauma care, and critical care facilities, supporting the region’s healthcare needs.
- Infrastructure and Campus Facilities
- Campus Buildings: The campus is spread across a large area and features several multi-story buildings, including academic blocks, administrative offices, hostel blocks, and healthcare facilities.
- Sports and Recreational Facilities: The academy provides sports and recreational amenities for students, including spaces for outdoor and indoor sports activities, gyms, and recreation halls.
- Cafeteria and Dining: There are cafeteria facilities providing food for students and staff with hygienic options. It caters to the dietary requirements of the students and staff.
- Internet and IT Facilities: KAHS is equipped with modern IT infrastructure, including computers, internet access, and Wi-Fi facilities, to support digital learning and research.
- Transport: Given the region’s geographical constraints, KAHS provides transport services for students and faculty, ensuring access to the campus and clinical facilities.
4. Research and Development
- Research Labs: The academy has research labs for conducting scientific studies in medical and health sciences, contributing to the development of healthcare in the region.
- Collaboration and Partnerships: KAHS collaborates with national and international medical institutions for research, exchange programs, and capacity-building initiatives.
5. Regional Impact
- Community Outreach: KAHS plays a critical role in improving the healthcare system of the Karnali region by training healthcare professionals who serve in rural areas, helping to address the local healthcare challenges.
- Public Health Programs: The academy is also involved in community health programs, spreading awareness about health issues, providing health education, and contributing to disease prevention.
Fee Structure For Karnali Academy of Health Sciences, Nepal
Total MBBS fees in Dollar $75,000 (Approximately)
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Documents Required For Admission For Karnali Academy of Health Sciences, Nepal
- An application form, which can be downloaded from the KAHS website
- A 10+2 marks sheet
- A 10th marks sheet
- A passport, voter ID, or Aadhar card
- A NEET UG score card and admit card
- A passport-sized photo
- Certified copies of university certificates
- A letter of recommendation, if applicable
You must also have completed 10+2 with 50% marks in PCB each subject.
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Eligibility Criteria For MBBS At Karnali Academy of Health Sciences (KAHS)
To apply for the MBBS program at KAHS, prospective students must meet the following requirements:
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Academic Qualifications:
- Completion of 10+2 or equivalent education in the science stream with Biology, Physics, and Chemistry as major subjects.
- A minimum aggregate score of 50% in the qualifying examination (or equivalent GPA).
- Students from non-Nepalese boards must submit equivalent certification approved by the relevant authorities in Nepal.
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Entrance Examination:
- Candidates must pass the Medical Education Common Entrance Examination (MECEE) conducted by the Medical Education Commission (MEC), Nepal (not applicable for international students)
- A competitive score in the entrance test is essential to secure admission.
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Age Requirement:
- The candidate must be at least 17 years old at the time of admission.
- Health Standards:
- Candidates must be in good health, meeting the physical and mental fitness criteria to pursue a rigorous medical program.
- Additional Requirements for International Students:
- Submission of all academic documents, a valid passport, and proof of eligibility as per the standards of the Nepal Medical Council and Medical Education Commission (MEC).
- International students may need to appear for an equivalence assessment or provide additional documentation, depending on their country of origin.
- Preference for Local Candidates:
- Priority may be given to students from Karnali Province and remote areas of Nepal, aligning with the academy’s mission to uplift healthcare in underserved regions.
Admission Process For Karnali Academy of Health Sciences, Nepal
- To study medicine in Nepal, students must first apply to the Ministry of Education since only 10% of the spots are available.
- International students need to pass an entrance exam to be considered, and selection is based on exam performance.
- After passing the entrance exam, students must follow the university’s application timeline.
- Students should submit their application along with certified copies of required documents.
- Certificate of qualification, Transcript and Character Certificate of 10+2 and SLC/SEE or Equivalent.
- Copy of Citizenship / Passport.
- Admit card of the Entrance Examination.
- Documents submitted for reservation.
- Certificate of Equivalence for the students with certificates from foreign institutions.
- Once the documents are verified, students will be accepted to study medicine at the university.
Benefits of Studying MBBS At Karnali Academy Of Health Sciences (KAHS)
- Dual Practice Opportunity
Graduates who pass the selection test are eligible to practice medicine in both Nepal and India, opening doors to diverse career opportunities. - Global Study Exposure
KAHS offers an MBBS exchange program that allows students to pursue part of their medical education abroad, broadening their academic and cultural horizons. - Research Skills Enhancement
Participation in the exchange program helps students develop strong medical research skills, preparing them for advanced studies or research-focused careers. - Cultural and Academic Diversity
The institution’s exchange program facilitates interaction with international students from various countries, providing opportunities to learn about diverse cultures and medical practices, fostering a global perspective.
Privileges And Benefits For Indian Students
1.Tuition Fee Structure:
- Discounts: In some cases, Indian students may be eligible for a more favorable tuition fee structure compared to other international students. This may be offered as part of a collaboration between Nepal and India or as a way to attract students from the neighboring country.
- Special Fee Packages: Indian students may have access to fee packages that are tailored to their affordability, especially given the close proximity between the two countries.
2.Admission Flexibility:
- Easier Admission Process: Indian students might experience a relatively easier admission process because of the geographical proximity, cultural similarities, and the existence of bilateral agreements between India and Nepal in higher education.
- No Need for Language Proficiency Exams: In some cases, Indian students may not need to prove proficiency in Nepali or other languages, as they are often taught in English, which is commonly spoken by Indian students.
3. Cultural and Social Connections:
- Cultural Familiarity: Indian students may find it easier to adapt to the local culture due to shared cultural aspects, which can make their transition to life in Nepal smoother.
- Student Communities: Many Indian students studying in Nepal form strong communities and social networks, which can help in both academic and personal adjustments.
4. Hostel and Accommodation:
- Subsidized Accommodation: Some institutions, including KAHS, may provide subsidized hostel or accommodation options for Indian students. This can help make living expenses more affordable.
- Access to Indian Cuisine: Many hostels or apartments near such institutions offer Indian food options, which can ease the experience of studying abroad.
5.Recognition of Indian Qualifications:
- Mutual Recognition: KAHS, like many other institutions in Nepal, may recognize Indian board exam results or university qualifications, making it easier for Indian students to transition into their desired health sciences programs.
6. Scholarships and Financial Aid:
- India-Nepal Scholarships: There are sometimes scholarships available specifically for Indian students through government collaborations or university-led programs. These scholarships could help in reducing tuition fees or other educational expenses.
- Merit-based Scholarships: KAHS may offer merit-based scholarships that Indian students can apply for based on their academic achievements.
7. Job Opportunities Post-Graduation:
- Recognition in India: KAHS qualifications, especially in health-related programs, may be recognized in India, offering Indian graduates’ opportunities for employment in the healthcare sector within India.
- Global Recognition: Students from KAHS may also have the opportunity to work in international settings, as the institution provides internationally recognized medical and health science programs.
8.Geographical Proximity:
- Proximity to India: Nepal’s close geographical proximity to India can be a significant benefit for Indian students. It allows for easy travel home during breaks, which can be less expensive and time-consuming compared to other international destinations.
FAQ’s
1. Are there opportunities for international students at Karnali Academy of Health Sciences?
Ans: Karnali Academy of Health Sciences provides a supportive environment for international students, including necessary guidance, resources, and accommodations
2. Does Karnali Academy of Health Sciences have a teaching hospital?
Ans: Yes, KAHS has its own teaching hospital that serves as a training ground for students. The hospital is well-equipped with advanced medical facilities, providing students with hands-on experience and exposure to real-life healthcare scenarios.
3. Is Karnali Academy of Health Sciences a private or a government college?
Ans: Karnali Academy of Health Sciences is a government college managed by the Nepal Government.
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