Nepal’s poorly developed infrastructure makes it hard for its people to access healthcare. The Shechen clinic provides medical services to the large local community, to people from the remote regions of Nepal, and to many Tibetan refugees. Supported by a local monastery, the institution sees more than 3,500 patients a month, providing them with access to free, quality care (allopathic, homeopathic, and Tibetan medicine, acupuncture, dental care).

As part of its social program, the Shechen Clinic also helps educate the region’s most disadvantaged children, whatever their religious background. Thanks to our support, all the children looked after by the clinic receive medical care and social support.

Family planning is also a priority for the Nepalese authorities. The child mortality rate, both at birth and during the first few years of life, is one of the highest in the world. Women also face a higher risk of death during childbirth. Improving family health and providing health education is therefore a major concern. The Clinic’s family planning center sees 300-350 patients a month, treating and advising mothers and their children.

Under the auspices of Matthieu Ricard, this project is one of numerous humanitarian initiatives in Tibet, Nepal, Bhutan, and India. A Buddhist monk since 1979, Matthieu Ricard lives in Nepal, where he devotes most of his time to implementing humanitarian programs. Since 1989, he has been the official interpreter to the 14th Dalai Lama.