The Leave No Trace (LNT) and First Aid Training programmes formally commenced today at the Secretariat of the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) in Nagpokhari, Naxal, marking another important step towards promoting safety, environmental responsibility, and professional standards in Nepal’s mountaineering and trekking sector.
The inaugural session was attended by officials of the Nepal Mountaineering Association and participating trainees. On the occasion, NMA President Mr. Fur Gelje Sherpa extended his best wishes to all participants and encouraged them to fully utilise the opportunity to enhance their knowledge and skills. He emphasised the importance of responsible mountaineering practices and adequate first aid knowledge in ensuring the safety of climbers, guides, and support staff while preserving fragile mountain ecosystems.
Focus on Environmental Responsibility and Safety
The first day of the programme featured the Leave No Trace training, which was conducted by Mr. Kim Young Sik of South Korea, an accredited Leave No Trace trainer with extensive experience in environmental education and outdoor ethics. During the session, participants were introduced to the core principles of Leave No Trace, focusing on minimising environmental impact, responsible behaviour in natural settings, and sustainable practices in mountain and trekking routes.
Mr. Kim Young Sik is scheduled to continue delivering the Leave No Trace training on the second day as well, providing participants with in-depth understanding and practical guidance on applying these principles in Nepal’s high-altitude and ecologically sensitive regions. The training aims to equip mountaineering and trekking professionals with the knowledge required to promote conservation-oriented practices among climbers and trekkers.
First Aid Training by International Medical Experts
Following the Leave No Trace sessions, the First Aid Training will be conducted on January 23 and 24, 2026. The medical training will be led by Dr. Giovanni Cappa, MD, President of the Italian Society of Extreme Environments Medicine, along with Dr. Paolo Rodi. The sessions will focus on emergency medical response, injury management, and health risks associated with high-altitude and extreme environments.
The First Aid component is designed to strengthen participants’ ability to respond effectively to medical emergencies in remote and challenging terrains, where timely professional medical support is often unavailable. The training will include both theoretical knowledge and practical applications relevant to mountaineering, trekking, and expedition activities.
Participation and Certification
A total of 56 participants have enrolled in the combined training programme, representing various segments of the mountaineering and trekking community. Upon successful completion of the training, all participants will be awarded certificates, recognising their enhanced competencies in environmental stewardship and first aid preparedness.
The Nepal Mountaineering Association stated that such training programmes are part of its ongoing efforts to promote safe, sustainable, and responsible mountain tourism in Nepal, while building the professional capacity of individuals engaged in the sector.
