19 April 2025
The Central Regional Referral Hospital (CRRH) in Gelephu has been equipped with the state-of-the-art Olympus EVIS X1 CV-1500 endoscopy system, marking a significant step forward in the early diagnosis and treatment of gastrointestinal cancers in the region.
The advanced endoscopy machine was donated by the Science and Technology Research Partnership for Sustainable Development (SATREPS) project—an initiative of the Japanese government, implemented by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). The hospital has also received two new endoscopes as part of the donation.
The official handover ceremony took place on 18 April 2025, in the presence of a Japanese delegation led by Professor Yoshio Yamaoka, Chief Advisor of the SATREPS project. Also in attendance were Dr. Guru Prasad Dhakal, Gastroenterologist and Co-Project Manager of the SATREPS, the Medical Superintendent and staff of CRRH.
The brief ceremony began with welcome remarks by Medical Superintendent Dr. Choeda Gyaltshen, followed by prayer recitations and Lhabsang Thruesel presided over by Lam Tso Zin and Lam Tso Zin Wom of the hospital. Professor Yamaoka delivered a keynote address highlighting the importance of the new endoscopy system, emphasizing its advanced capability to detect even the smallest cancers at an early stage which will enhance the timely treatment.
