KATHMANDU: In response to recent reports, the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) has issued a statement defending the safety and accreditation standards of its ongoing mountain guide training program in the Api Himal region.

The training, part of the Summer Skill Course for Professional Mountain Guides, is being conducted in collaboration with the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) and the UNDP Sustainable Tourism Project (STP), with local support from Api Himal Rural Municipality. A team of 14 trainees and six instructors—all selected based on NMA’s established criteria—recently carried out field training on Lyahakul Peak in Darchula, the statement issued by the NMA.

During the descent, a trainee, Nawang Tenji Sherpa, was hit by a falling rock. Chief instructor Sanjib Gurung injured his ankle while preventing Sherpa from sliding further. Both were promptly evacuated by helicopter to Kathmandu, received medical treatment, and have since returned home to recover.

NMA President Phur Galje Sherpa reaffirmed that the program follows international standards recognized by the International Climbing and Mountaineering Federation (UIAA) and uses a curriculum approved by the Council for Technical Education and Vocational Training (CTEVT).

“This training—like all our programs—adheres to rigorous safety protocols and is delivered by highly qualified instructors. We encourage everyone to seek verified information before publishing unsubstantiated claims,” Sherpa stated.

The response comes amid public debate over the program’s credibility, with critics raising concerns about international accreditation and risk management.