Miscellaneous
Janaki Medical College’s 50-seat ceiling remains
Authorities have decided to retain the 50-seat ceiling on Janaki Medical College in Province 2 despite assurances by its new management committee formed in August.Authorities have decided to retain the 50-seat ceiling on Janaki Medical College in Province 2 despite assurances by its new management committee formed in August.
“The decision comes after a series of discussions with officials from the Tribhuvan University, Institute of Medicine and Nepal Medical Council,” IoM Dean Dr Jagadish Prasad Agrawal told the Post.
The college, which has a capacity of 80 seats, was closed for more than nine months in 2014 following reports of mismanagement and protests by staff and students.
“Lack of investments to facilitate its staff and dispute between the then stakeholders were the major reasons that led to the college’s downfall,” said Ram Swarup Sinha, a former management committee member.
The decision to continue the seat restriction also comes with stern warnings of harsh actions if the new management committee failed to deliver on its commitment. But considering the college’s role in the delivery of health services in the region, the officials said they are ready to extend full support to the institution.
“Effective management of the college will draw a huge number of patients, which is important for the MBBS students. The college can be a centre of medical excellence in the region,” Chairman of the council Dr Dharma Kanta Baskota said.
“Around 80 students will graduate from the college in the next six months. Officials will be evaluating the overall performance of the new management committee. No seats will be allocated to the college for the next session if they fail to meet the required standards,” Dr Baskota said.
A total of 240 students are currently pursuing the MBBS degree in the college, but a series of controversies and the nine-month closure have left a dent in the reputation of the institution. “If the college doesn’t comply with its commitments, we will be forced to dismiss the management and take matter into our own hands,” said TU Vice-chancellor Tirtha Raj Khaniya.
“We will form a new team from the existing medical colleges and ensure smooth running of classes.”