PMDC reverses controversial BDS program extension

ISLAMABAD: In a significant policy reversal, the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) has withdrawn its controversial proposal to extend the Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) program from four to five years. This comes after relentless advocacy by the Pakistan Dental Association (PDA). The development, first reported by Dental News quoting sources, marks a major milestone in dental and medical education reforms, protecting students’ interests and maintaining regulatory balance.

Revelant story: PMDC to withdraw BDS Program extension decision

During a high-level meeting at PMDC’s Islamabad Head Office, PDA President Dr. Khurshid Ahmad presented a comprehensive case against the extension, citing legal, academic, and infrastructural challenges. This meeting also signaled PMDC’s formal recognition of PDA as the official voice of the dental profession, a groundbreaking achievement for the association under Dr. Ahmad’s leadership.

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PMDC had initially considered three models for BDS program restructuring:

• 4+1 Model: Four years of academic education followed by one year of house job.
• 5+0 Model: A five-year integrated curriculum replacing the house job with clerkship.
• 5+1 Model: Five academic years with an additional year of house job.

Concerns over legal compliance and resource constraints led to further evaluation. The PMDC has deferred implementing any changes for one year, committing to broad consultations with educators, students, institutions, and policymakers to devise a robust, consensus-driven framework.

Dr. Khurshid Ahmad emphasized the need for inclusive policy-making:

“Thoughtful collaboration is crucial for shaping the future of medical and dental education. A sustainable framework must reflect the perspectives of all stakeholders while adhering to PMDC guidelines.”

PMDC reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and participatory governance, inviting diverse viewpoints to strengthen healthcare education policy in Pakistan.

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