KATHMANDU, DECEMBER 22
The Ministry of Home Affairs and Kathmandu University's (KU) Department of Mental Health have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to collaborate on research and initiatives addressing mental health and suicide prevention.
Dr. Tok Raj Pandey, Head of the Ministry's Disaster Division, and Dr. Deepak Kunwar, Head of KU's Mental Health Department, signed the agreement on behalf of their respective institutions.
Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak expressed confidence that this partnership would significantly contribute to reducing suicide cases through joint efforts. "Suicide is a grave issue," he remarked. "In the past 24 hours, 37 individuals attempted suicide, and 11 succumbed. The remaining 26, though rescued, remain at risk. This underscores the urgent need for robust intervention."
The Home Minister highlighted that KU would conduct in-depth research into the causes and triggers of suicide and devise effective prevention strategies. Additionally, the university's Mental Health Department will offer psychological counseling through telemedicine and provide basic training on suicide prevention.
Minister Lekhak also announced plans for a mobile application dedicated to suicide prevention and control, which will consolidate relevant information and resources. He directed stakeholders to conduct quarterly evaluations of progress in minimizing suicide cases.
Dr. Kunwar emphasized that the MoU enables KU to expand its suicide prevention initiatives beyond the Kathmandu Valley, leveraging telemedicine to reach remote areas. "Collaborating with the Ministry enhances our capacity to deliver impactful results," he added.
