Midwifery Science Programs and Colleges in Nepal

In Nepal, maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality remain significant public health challenges. Recognizing this, the National Health Policy 2071 prioritizes promoting maternal and child health and reducing associated morbidity and mortality rates. A key component of this policy is the production of a specialized workforce, including professional midwives.

Despite the critical need for skilled birth attendants to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) related to maternal and neonatal health, midwifery education in Nepal still needs to be improved, leading to an acute shortage of qualified midwives. The country requires an additional 5,000 skilled professionals to provide quality midwifery care and meet these SDGs. The World Health Organization and the Government of Nepal have highlighted the importance of producing professional midwives in their long-term strategy for skilled birth attendance.

Bachelor of Midwifery Science (BMS) Program in Nepal

Various health science academies and universities in Nepal have launched the Bachelor of Midwifery Science (BMS) program to address this gap. These programs aim to produce professional, compassionate, and competent midwives capable of delivering holistic midwifery care.

Medical Education Commission fixes the seats for the Bachelor of Midwifery Science (BMS) program. In 2024, MEC has fixed 130 seats. 

To get enrollment in the BMS program, students should sit and pass a common entrance examination; MECEE-BL which selects students based on merit and inclusion criteria. 

Midwives are essential to achieving Sustainable Development Goal targets 3.1 (reducing maternal mortality) and 3.2 (reducing neonatal mortality). Additionally, midwives play a crucial role in addressing women's psychological, emotional, physical, social, and spiritual needs during pregnancy, childbirth, and throughout their lives. By educating women, their families, and the community, midwives help enhance women's overall quality of life.

The BMS program is a crucial step towards improving maternal and neonatal health outcomes in Nepal, ensuring that more women and newborns receive the high-quality care they need.