Registration open for third UIAA Mountain Safety Symposium
Young climbers and mountaineers, outdoor practitioners and high-altitude enthusiasts in Nepal and the surrounding regions eager to elevate their skills, safety knowledge, and awareness of the mountains are invited to register for the 3rd International Mountain Safety Symposium, taking place on 27–28 October 2026 in Nepal.
Organised by the International Climbing and Mountaineering Federation (UIAA) alongside the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) this two-day event gathers world-leading medical specialists, safety experts, and legendary Himalayan climbers to empower the next generation of mountain workers and adventurers.
This is the third edition of the ever-evolving UIAA Mountain Safety Symposium following editions in Bariloche (Argentina) in 2024 and in Peja (Kosovo) a year later. The events have been successful in focusing on national and regional topics while introducing an international perspective and network.
This event precedes the UIAA General Assembly to be held in Kathmandu on 30-31 October.
Key Event Details
- Dates: 27-28 October 2026
- Locations: ICIMOD HQ, Lalitpur (Day 1) & Kakani International Scout Center (Day 2), Nepal
- Target Audience: Young mountain enthusiasts, guides, expedition staff, and outdoor students in Nepal and neighbouring regions
- How to register: Please read the related logistical information on the dedicated UIAA website page and then register here.
- Registration deadline: 30 September 2026
- Programme: The current programme is highlighted below and available here.
- Speakers: The list of confirmed speakers can be viewed here.
- Logistics: Please refer to the dedicated logistical guide for accommodation, transport, meals and costs.
- Note: No prior climbing or medical knowledge is needed to participate.
- Optional activity: a guided tour of the ICIMOD living mountain lab will be organised for any interested MSS participants on the morning of 29 October
Day 1: Theory, Sustainability & High-Altitude Medicine (27 October)
Hosted at the ICIMOD Headquarters in Lalitpur, Kathmandu, Day 1 focuses on key theoretical and safety challenges facing modern Himalayan mountaineers:
- Young Himalayan Mountaineers & Career Paths: Nima Rinji Sherpa (UIAA Youth Commission and youngest climber to summit all 8000m peaks) on navigating new challenges and pathways to becoming professional mountain workers.
- Mountain Safety & Equipment: Insights on the UIAA Safety Label, equipment standards, Himalayan rescue services, insurance, and safety in warming mountains.
- Culture, Environment & Sustainability: Exploring Indigenous heritage, sustainable Himalayan tourism, waste management in the Khumbu, and the impact of climate change.
- Mountain Medicine: Essential training on treating and preventing high-altitude conditions, including Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE), High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE), frostbite, hypothermia, waterborne diseases, and acclimatization planning.
- The Future of Mountaineering: Panel discussions on global expedition trends, gender equality, social inclusion, and future management around Everest.
Talks and presentations will come from leading local experts as well as a number of UIAA Commissions, including the UIAA Safety, Medical, Mountaineering, Mountain Protection and Youth Commissions.
Day 2: Practical Field Workshops & Rescue Techniques (28 October)
Day 2 transfers to the Kakani International Scout Center for hands-on, interactive field workshops led by international UIAA experts, medical professionals from the Mountain Medicine Society of Nepal (MMSN) and local Nepalese rescue services and guides:
- Emergency Field Care: Assembly and use of improvised stretchers, operation of portable hyperbaric altitude chambers, trauma control (splints, logrolls, haemorrhage control), and water disinfection.
- Technical & Equipment Skills: Rope work, knots, abseiling, gear inspections, and maintenance.
- Improvised Rescue: Multi-group practical drills for improvised rescues in steep Himalayan as well as glacial terrain.
Certification: Official certificate presentation for all participating delegates upon completion.
For any specific questions please contact Philippe Quintart or Carol Kahoun-Kauer.
Further Information
UIAA Mountain Safety Symposium
Registration