Speech for Ms. Sujata Koirala, the Former Deputy Prime Minister and Chairperson of SKMT
- Shristi Koirala, Chairperson of SKMT, serving as the Chairman of the Ceremony.
- We are privileged to have in our midst His Excellency Mr. Yutaka Kikuta, the Ambassador of Japan to Nepal, as our esteemed Chief Guest.
- Also gracing us with her presence is Bindabasini Kansakar, a distinguished Member of Parliament from the Government of Nepal.
- Joining us is Ramesh Napit, the Mayor of Shankarapur Municipality, and various other distinguished guests in attendance.
- To commence, I extend a wholehearted welcome to His Excellency Mr. Yutaka Kikuta, Ambassador of Japan to Nepal, and his team, as we inaugurate the ICU and conduct the handover of GGP at SKMH. We also extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Embassy for their invaluable support in furnishing the ICU equipment. This contribution will undoubtedly enhance our capacity to elevate and enhance the services offered at SKMH, benefiting the impoverished and vulnerable communities in Nepal.
- Allow me to elaborate on the origins of SKMH. It was established as the first Specialized Plastic & Reconstructive Hospital, commemorating the legacy of my late mother, Sushma Koirala, a visionary and dedicated social worker, who also happened to be the wife of the former Prime Minister, Late Girija Prasad Koirala.
- Regrettably, my mother’s life was tragically cut short by burn injuries, due to the absence of adequate medical facilities and skilled professionals to manage such cases in Nepal.
- During my pursuit of further education in Germany, I had the privilege of encountering Prof. Lemperle, the Founding President of Interplast Germany. This encounter led me to propose the establishment of a Plastic Surgery Hospital in Nepal. The outcome was the inception of Sushma Koirala Memorial Hospital in 1997, with the invaluable support of Interplast Germany, marking a milestone as Nepal’s pioneer in specialized Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.
- Recognizing the grave challenge of burn injuries and post-burn complications, it’s pertinent to highlight the inadequate emphasis placed by both the government and donors on this issue. This lack of prioritization leaves many economically disadvantaged individuals, who are victims of burn injuries, unable to afford the expensive treatments required. Contributions such as the GGP initiative will undoubtedly augment the quality of our services and bolster our capabilities.
- Since its establishment in 1997, SKMH has remained steadfast in its commitment to delivering free and subsidized medical care to the less fortunate and underserved populations.
- We eagerly anticipate future collaborations with the Embassy of Japan and hold expectations for your continued invaluable support, as we collectively endeavor to enhance and expand the spectrum of services provided by the hospital.
- In closing, I extend my gratitude to all participants and attendees. Your presence underscores the significance of our mission, and we remain dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of those we serve.
- Thank you!