Kathmandu: Minister for Health and Population Pradip Paudel emphasized the critical role of maintaining the highest ethical standards in health research, noting its impact on countless individuals. Speaking at the opening session of the 24th International Conference of the Forum for Ethical Review Committees in the Asian and Western Pacific Region (FERCAP), he highlighted that ethical research practices are fundamental to fostering public confidence in health services.
According to National News Agency Nepal, the conference, held for the first time in Nepal, has attracted around 600 participants, including experts in various research-related fields, policymakers, academic representatives, and medical professionals. Discussions and presentations on numerous aspects of research ethics are scheduled throughout the event, which is organized in collaboration with the Nepal Health Research Council.
Experts from 23 countries, such as the USA, Japan, the UK, Philippines, Poland, Malaysia, Norway, Greece, Kenya, Bra
zil, and India, are contributing to the conference. A total of 90 papers and 13 posters on research ethics have been selected for presentation, with 61 being presented by international experts and 29 by national experts, as informed by the organizers.
Council Member-Secretary Dr. Pramod Joshi stated that the conference aligns with the Council’s primary goal of regulating health research and fostering ethical and sound research practices in the health sector. The conference is set to continue until November 27.
On the inaugural day, participants received training on the roles of researchers and experts on code review committees following research approval. Dr. Joshi mentioned that the conference would address various topics related to research ethics, the role of the Council, and the principles of conduct necessary to tackle challenges arising from advancements in research innovation.
The Council believes the conference will be pivotal in identifying and effectively addressing current challenges, given the
urgent need for studies, research, and experiments in the medical and health sector amidst ongoing progress in health research and technology.