'Collaboration between KU and Dhulikhel Hospital should continue'

By A Staff Reporter,Kathmandu, Aug. 15: Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has directed that the collaboration between Kathmandu University and Dhulikhel Hospital be maintained for at least the next five years.

During the 97th meeting of Kathmandu University held at the Prime Minister’s residence in Baluwatar on Wednesday, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, in his capacity as the Chancellor of the university, instructed that the differences between the university and Dhulikhel Hospital be resolved through mutual discussions.

Dispute and confusion arose between the two organisations as Dhulikhel Hospital sought approval for foundation from the provincial government, while the university was preparing to open its own hospital.

Prime Minister Oli said, “Given that the university cannot immediately open a new hospital and the government is unable to invest in one, the relationship and cooperation with Dhulikhel Hospital should be maintained for at least five more years.”

“During this period, the university can prepare to open its own hospital. This and other policy matters 

will be decided at another senate meeting of the university scheduled for Bhadra, where other challenges and difficulties will also be discussed,” he added. 

After Ashok Byanju, Mayor of Dhulikhel Municipality, expressed concerns that the university should not abruptly sever its relationship with the hospital, Prime Minister Oli gave Vice-Chancellor Dr. Bhola Thapa time to address the matter. 

Taking into account the opinion of former Vice-Chancellor Dr. Suresh Raj Sharma, Chancellor Oli deemed it necessary to maintain the relationship between the two institutions.

Prime Minister Oli also suggested that the university should manage student enrollment according to its seat capacity.

Prime Minister Oli noted that in the last fiscal year, government revenue was 24 per cent below estimates, while expenditure increased significantly. 

As a result, the government was unable to provide additional subsidies to the universities, despite its intentions.

The meeting, attended by the Minister for Education, Science and Technology and Vice-Chancellor 

Bidhya Bhattarai, also approved the university’s budget of Rs. 4.3 billion, presented by Registrar Dr. Achyut Prasad Wagle.

The meeting also approved the grace list of 2,314 students from various faculties who will graduate at the upcoming 29th convocation.