KATHMANDU, SEPTEMBER 19

The Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) has issued a formal response following recent media reports questioning the safety and accreditation of its ongoing mountain guide training in the Api Himal region.

The program, organized in partnership with the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) and the UNDP Sustainable Tourism Project, and locally facilitated by the Api Himal Rural Municipality, includes the Summer Skill Course for Professional Mountain Guides and rope-fixing field training in Darchula.

According to the NMA, a team of 14 trainees and six trainers, selected by the association, undertook field training on Lyahakul Peak in Darchula based on a Council for Technical Education and Vocational Training (CTEVT)–approved curriculum. During the return from the peak after completing the training, trainee Nawang Tenji Sherpa was struck by a falling stone and began sliding down the slope. Chief Instructer Sanjib Gurung sustained injuries while attempting to save him, including a dislocated left ankle, while Sherpa suffered minor hand injuries. Both were rescued by helicopter and, after receiving treatment in Kathmandu, have been discharged and are resting at home.

NMA President Phur Galje Sherpa in the press statement emphasized that the training is accredited by the International Climbing and Mountaineering Federation (UIAA) and follows CTEVT-approved standards. 'Like our past programs, this training is conducted with skilled instructors who are selected according to the set standard of the association. We urge media and the public to verify facts before publishing unverified claims,' he said.

The statement comes amid ongoing debate questioning the course's credibility, with critics alleging inadequate international accreditation and safety planning.

However, NMA insists that its curriculum aligns with national standards for professional mountain guide training and that its instructors are experienced Nepali climbers with extensive high-altitude expertise.