Rupa Thapa is a committed and resilient professional in Nepal’s healthcare education sector. She began her journey at Lalitpur Nursing College and later expanded her expertise through studies at prestigious institutions like Tribhuvan University and CMC (Chitwan Medical College).
Throughout her career, She has exemplified a strong commitment to learning and leadership. Her experience at Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital and her current role as a Head of Department at Yeti Health Science Academy has provided her with invaluable insights.
Mrs. Thapa’s dedication in nursing education continues to inspire and play a crucial role in shaping the future of nursing education in Nepal. Her dedication and expertise are influencing the next generation of healthcare professionals, ensuring a bright future for the field.
How did Rupa Thapa get into this field?
Rupa Thapa’s true passion was to become a teacher, a dream instilled in her since receiving a heartfelt blessing from her grandfather during Dashain, encouraging her towards this path.
After passing SLC, She dreamt of becoming a teacher in either mathematics, English, or science. Her plans were initially set on studying in Butwal or Palpa for science.
However, while in Palpa, she discovered the CMA program, which became a turning point in her educational journey. Among Rupa Thapa’s group of friends, she was the sole individual to pass the SLC with a first division.
Support and Determination Leads to Success in Nursing
As they explored the CMA course, they met an administrative officer who taught CMA. He provided them with a detailed description of the course and highlighted the ample opportunities available for girls in this field.
After hearing the teacher’s advice, Rupa Thapa became more curious and discussed it with her father. Despite her initial reluctance, her father was incredibly supportive and agreed to accompany her to Pokhara the next day. Her resilience in pursuing her passion led her to secure the 1st rank among the applicants for the PCL nursing course.
In Pokhara, they visited to check out the PCL nursing course. At that time, there were no entrance exams like today. The course had 40 seats available, and Rupa Thapa secured the 1st rank among the applicants.
After completing the 3-year PCL nursing course, Rupa Thapa worked at the teaching hospital for 14 years. During this period, she successfully balanced her education and career.
Balancing Life and Overcoming Challenges
Rupa Thapa emphasizes that balancing personal and professional life involves facing inevitable challenges and setbacks. She asserts that maintaining a positive mindset is essential as it enhances productivity in various aspects. Her resilience in navigating these challenges and maintaining a positive outlook has significantly improved outcomes in both her personal and professional spheres.
Despite difficulties, adopting a positive outlook can significantly improve outcomes in both personal and professional spheres. While striving for balance, Rupa Thapa suggests not giving up. She advocates setting clear targets and taking personal responsibility to find solutions to achieve them.
According to her, everything in life presents challenges, not just nursing. However, she believes that with dedication and goal-setting, we can overcome these challenges and succeed in any attempt.
Leadership and Advocacy in Nursing Education
Rupa Thapa has always been known for her leadership and management abilities. Even in school, she was recognized as a natural leader. Her resilient approach to leadership is evident in her willingness to speak up and her dedication to gathering information despite challenges.
During her studies in PCL nursing, she actively participated in movements, often going out of her way on weekends and holidays to gather information despite the challenges involved.
She is an open-minded individual who values transparency and does not hide information. Currently, while not directly involved in politics, Rupa Thapa’s aspiration during her nursing studies was to rise as a member, indicating her interest in contributing to decision-making and leadership roles.
Rupa Thapa’s Journey in Nursing Excellence
Rupa Thapa takes immense pride in her work at the teaching hospital, where she has received strong support from seniors and doctors. Her resilient commitment to quality care has been inspired by role models in the nursing sector.
With 10 years of experience in the operation theatre and 5 years in general wards, Rupa believes nursing is a profession of high responsibility. Her work with dedicated colleagues has deepened her appreciation for this trait.
Rupa highlights nursing’s diverse roles in old age homes, home care, mental health centers, and schools, providing stable jobs for students. Developed countries’ better facilities and pay attract many nurses overseas.
PCL nursing students learn crucial skills like patient care and communication, reflecting Rupa’s journey of curiosity and determination towards a fulfilling nursing career.
PCL Nursing and BSC Nursing is not just for Female
According to Rupa Thapa, after completing the School Leaving Certificate (SLC), students can pursue a three-year PCL Nursing course, which qualifies them for the position of a staff nurse.
After completing their higher secondary education (+2) from a science background, students typically pursue a four-year BSC Nursing course.
Rupa Thapa mentioned that currently, 15% of nursing students in Nepal are male. This provision has been in place for 4 to 5 years in both PCL and BSC nursing programs, indicating a growing trend toward gender inclusivity in the field.
In our society, there are varied opinions about males choosing nursing as a profession. Due to these societal attitudes, males interested in nursing may encounter discouragement or hesitation.
Nursing Career Advancement Tips for Students By Rupa Thapa
From her experience, Rupa Thapa highlights that to become a teacher in nursing, one must gain practical experience in fields such as hospitals. This includes experience in community health, school nursing, and research. Her resilience in accumulating diverse experiences enables her to effectively teach real-world scenarios in nursing education.
This firsthand experience allows them to effectively convey real-life scenarios in the teaching field. If there is prior background experience, it becomes much easier to explain.
Rupa Thapa suggests applying continuous dedication and effort to whichever field of study or occupation you choose. She advises using social media primarily as a source of information rather than an entertainment platform.
Additionally, she encourages exploring new things and emphasizes the importance of patience in every aspect of life, along with the crucial support of family.
Conclusion
Rupa Thapa’s career in nursing education reflects unwavering dedication and resilient leadership. From her early days at Lalitpur Nursing College to her influential roles at prestigious institutions and ongoing commitment at Yeti Health Science Academy, she has shaped the future of nursing in Nepal. Her advocacy for inclusivity and passion for teaching continues to inspire the next generation of healthcare professionals.
Here is a video by Consult Nepal highlighting Rupa Thapa’s inspiring journey in nursing education. It covers her dedication, challenges, and contributions to the field. Watch to see how she is shaping the future of nursing in Nepal.