KARACHI – The Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PM&DC) has introduced stringent new reforms and conditions for students seeking medical and dental degrees from foreign institutions. Under the new regulations, it is now mandatory for students to register with the PM&DC before departing for overseas studies.
MDCAT Now a Prerequisite
In a high-level meeting chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, it was strictly decided that no student will be permitted to pursue medical education abroad without first passing the Medical and Dental College Admission Test (MDCAT). This move aims to ensure that only qualified candidates enter the medical profession, maintaining the standard of healthcare in Pakistan.
Criteria for Foreign Institutions
The committee emphasized that medical education must align with global standards and transparency. It was directed that students must only enroll in foreign medical colleges that are on the PM&DC’s approved list and are recognized by the World Federation for Medical Education (WFME).
Academic and Attendance Requirements
To ensure rigorous training, the PM&DC has set specific benchmarks for foreign degree holders. Graduates returning with foreign degrees must pass the National Registration Exam (NRE) to practice in Pakistan. Furthermore, a minimum of 6,200 teaching hours is mandatory for the degree, and students must maintain at least 80% attendance throughout their program.
Language and Documentation
For students heading to non-English speaking countries, the committee has directed them to learn the local language of that country first. Additionally, students are now bound to provide their complete accommodation and contact information to the council before leaving Pakistan.
Zero Tolerance on Inspections
The meeting also focused on the domestic front, stressing a transparent and merit-based inspection process for medical and dental colleges within Pakistan. The Deputy PM reiterated a “Zero Tolerance Policy” against any negligence or irregularities during the inspection process, ensuring that medical institutions uphold the highest quality of education.
