Proceeding report: 11th National summit of health and population scientists in Nepal; “Health climate and population health systems for a sustainable

Abstract

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:

The Eleventh National Summit of Health and Population Scientists in Nepal was successfully convened by the Nepal Health Research Council (NHRC) with the collective goal of advancing evidence-based health policy and planning in Nepal. The summit reaffirmed the critical role of scientific inquiry in informing national strategies to address emerging health challenges guided by the overarching theme, “Health, Climate and Population Dynamics: Building Resilient Health Systems for a Sustainable and Equitable Future”. Over the course of the summit, participants engaged in in-depth discussions and shared the latest research findings across a range of thematic areas, with a particular emphasis on the intersection of climate change, and health and population dynamics. Climate was prioritised in this year’s theme due to its growing and multifaceted impact on health systems, disease patterns, and vulnerable populations. The increasing frequency of extreme weather events, shifting disease vectors, and environmental degradation have placed unprecedented pressure on health service delivery, especially in remote and underserved regions. In response, the summit sought to explore how health systems can anticipate, adapt to, and mitigate the health-related consequences of climate change. The summit underscored the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and the integration of climate-informed research into national health policy and planning. The plenary sessions, panel discussions, and research presentations served as structured forums for scholarly exchange, critical analysis, and evidence-informed policy dialogue. The summit witnessed a remarkable level of participation, with approximately 1,200 individuals attending in person and several hundred more joining virtually. This strong presence reflected the growing national and international interest in advancing health research and policy dialogue in Nepal. The summit was formally inaugurated by Honourable Ms. Bidya Bhattarai, Minister of Education, Science, and Technology of the Federal Republic of Nepal. The inaugural session was graced by a distinguished panel of dignitaries and stakeholders from across sectors of health, education, and governance. The inauguration session was attended by special guests Prof. Dr. Shiva Raj Adhikari, Honourable Vice Chair of the National Planning Commission, Prof. R.P. Bichha, Honourable Member, National Planning Commission, Prof. Dr. Anjani Kumar Jha, Vice Chairperson, Medical Education Commission, Government of Nepal, Dr. Bikash Devkota, Secretary, Ministry of Health and Population, and Dr. Pramod Joshi, Executive Chief (Member-Secretary) of NHRC. In addition, the event was attended by Executive Committee Members of NHRC, Vice Chancellors, Rectors, Registrars, and Deans of major academic institutions, Joint-Secretaries, Directors and Division Chiefs of Ministry of Health and Population, renowned international and national guest speakers, researchers, programme managers, journalists, and media professionals. Nepal’s growing commitment to advancing medicine, public health, and health governance stood as a powerful testament throughout the summit. With a remarkable 104 oral viii presentations and 118 poster submissions, the event brought together a diverse group of professionals, researchers, policymakers, development partners and students. The topics explored spanned a wide range, from clinical medicine and public health policies to health inequalities, migration, and social development, reflecting the multi-dimensional nature of health systems today. What truly set the summit apart were the panel discussions, which tackled some of Nepal’s most pressing and timely health concerns. Critical conversations focused on health insurance, a system that continues to require structural reforms and greater public awareness. Experts highlighted its growing significance as a matter of national policy level discourse in Nepal, stressing the urgent need for inclusive and sustainable coverage models that can effectively serve the country’s most vulnerable populations. The discussion around health research governance, recognized as the backbone of an effective health system, was equally vital. Panellists underlined the necessity of establishing strong frameworks and ethical standards to promote clinical research and fellowships within Nepal. At a time when global attention is increasingly turning toward scientific advancement, the summit made a persuasive case for equipping Nepal’s medical workforce not just with clinical expertise, but also with the capacity to conduct meaningful research. The discussions challenged the traditional notion that health research should be confined to health professionals alone. Instead, it encouraged a more inclusive, interdisciplinary approach, welcoming contributions from individuals across various fields who are passionate and committed to improving health outcomes. The audience engagement was equally commendable. Participants were not only informed but actively involved, raising questions, offering insights, and contributing to in-depth discussions on national and global health challenges. The energy and enthusiasm in the room signalled a collective readiness to drive change, backed by knowledge, collaboration, and a shared vision for a healthier future. One of the most uplifting moments of the summit was the recognition of exceptional individuals and teams who have contributed significantly to the field of health research in Nepal. Thirteen distinguished awards were presented across a wide range of categories, each celebrating innovation, dedication, and the spirit of inquiry that fuels progress in healthcare. The awards included: JNHRC Best Research Paper Award , Health Research Award, Young Health Research Award, Mrigendra Samjhana Medical Trust Young Health Researcher Award (Medical Doctor), Mrigendra Samjhana Medical Trust Young Health Researcher Award (NHRC Employee), Health Research Life-time Achievement Award, Best Paper Presentation Award (Poster), Best Paper Presentation Award (Oral), NHRC Best Section Award, NHRC Best Performer Award, Health Journalist Award, Gopal Prasad Acharya Health Research Award, NHRC Lifetime Achievement Award. These honours were awarded based on merit, recognizing creativity, innovation, and impact on health research. Through these recognitions, the summit aimed to convey a strong message: excellence is always acknowledged, dedication is valued, and innovation is indispensable. The declaration of the summit was presented at its closing, marking a moment of collective commitment towards the shared vision of a healthier Nepal. The event concluded in the esteemed presence of Honourable Minister for Health and Population, Mr. Pradip Paudel, Secretary, Ministry of Health and Population, Mr. Hari Prasad Mainali, Executive Chief ix (Member-Secretary) of NHRC, Dr. Pramod Joshi, and Executive Committee Members of NHRC. The Eleventh National Summit of Health and Population Scientists in Nepal did more than just disseminate knowledge; it ignited a movement, a call to action for health professionals, researchers, and citizens alike to take part in shaping the future of health and well-being in Nepal and beyond. The summit concluded with the following key declarations, which encapsulate the collective commitments and outcomes of the event: 1. Strengthen and harmonise health research governance through revision of institutional and legislative provisions in a collaborative way in the federal context for promoting responsible conduct of research, and evidence-based policy formulation, planning and effective implementation. 2. Increase investment in health, population and environment research to promote quality research for evidence informed decision making. 3. Promote human capital in health research by creating conducive environment for young researchers and retention of experienced researchers in the country. 4. Strengthen collaboration between researchers, policy makers, academia, scientists, civil society, private sector and community to promote high-quality interdisciplinary research for effective response to existing and emerging health issues and future pandemics through use of new technologies (such as digital, AI) towards strengthening the quality of research. 5. Promote interdisciplinary research on wider determinants of health, implementation research and clinical research using one health approach. 6. Enhance health research capacity of researchers through regular trainings, fellowships and grants.