KATHMANDU: The Nepal Nursing Association (NNA) has announced its protest programs, holding a press conference at its central office on Monday.

The nurses, particularly those working in private hospitals and medical colleges, have expressed anger over low wages and labor exploitation, prompting the planned protests.

During the press conference, NNA Central President Chandrakala Sharma stated that from October 21 to 28, nurses across all hospitals and health education institutions in the country will wear black armbands while performing their duties.

Additionally, from October 29 to November 4, nursing services, except for emergency care, will be halted for two hours daily from 10 AM to 12 PM.

She also mentioned that further schedules will be announced according to the report of the task force formed by the Ministry by November 4.

President Sharma emphasized that nurses deserve proper wages and benefits for the work they perform, and the association is mobilizing to secure these rights.

She added that it is regrettable that nurses are paid less than the minimum wages prescribed by the Labor Act, and they should receive compensation in accordance with the Health Services Act, rather than the Labor Act.

In a statement released at the press conference, the association apologized for any inconvenience the protest may cause to the public’s access to health services.