Apr 15, Kathmandu- Minister for Health and Population Pradeep Poudel has said that Nepal should move forward continuously to reduce maternal and infant mortality to zero.

Stating that Nepal has been remarkably successful in reducing maternal and infant mortality, he said that the government will allocate budget in the upcoming budget in a way that prioritizes maternity care.

On the occasion of the inauguration of the Maternal and Newborn Simulation Lab of the Paropakar Maternity and Gynecology Hospital, he said, "The effectiveness of this lab must be maintained in the long term. Such labs should now be expanded to all provinces." This lab has been brought into operation at the Kupandol branch of the hospital.

The simulation lab, built with the support of One Heart Worldwide, will be used to enhance the knowledge and clinical skills of maternal and newborn healthcare providers.

Secretary to the Ministry of Health, Hari Prasad Mainali, said that attention should be paid to increasing the operation and effectiveness of the lab. He said, “There is also a challenge of manpower. Starting a lab is a big deal, but an even bigger one is to operate it continuously.”

The hospital's director, Dr. Shree Prasad Adhikari, said that this laboratory will facilitate the practice of medical methods for maternal and child health care providers. He said, "This laboratory is expected to help in learning and teaching medical skills, developing proficiency in new skills, and performing work with high skills."