Pakistan Extends Dental Surgery Program to Five Years

Global Standards Drive the Country’s Educational Reform

The Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) has approved a significant extension of the Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) programme from four to five years, marking a pivotal moment in the country’s dental education landscape. The decision comes after extensive deliberations with key stakeholders to address international training and employment challenges.

Rationale Behind the Extended Curriculum

PMDC President Prof Dr Rizwan Taj explained the strategic motivation behind this change. “Keeping in view the challenges faced by BDS graduates from Pakistan in securing training/jobs worldwide where five-year BDS transcript is required, the PMDC Council decided that the BDS course/structure in Pakistan shall be a five years programme,” he stated.

Enhanced Educational Opportunities

The additional year will provide students with a more comprehensive educational experience. “The additional year will allow students to gain a deeper theoretical understanding of dental sciences, improving the academic foundation required for excellence in the field,” Dr. Taj noted. The new structure includes a fifth-year clerkship, followed by a one-year structured house job or internship.

International Recognition and Competitiveness

This reform aims to bring Pakistan’s dental education system into alignment with global standards. By implementing the five-year program starting from the 2024-2025 session, the PMDC seeks to enhance the international recognition of Pakistani dental graduates and improve their competitiveness in both local and international healthcare sectors.

Implementation and Collaborative Approach

The council has already initiated implementation steps. Some institutions, including the University of Health Sciences (UHS) of Lahore, have already adopted the five-year structure. The PMDC is working closely with dental colleges nationwide to ensure a seamless transition, with comprehensive curriculum guidelines being finalized and soon to be shared with institutions.

Additional Reforms in Medical Education

Concurrent with the BDS program extension, the PMDC is also undertaking reforms in the Medical and Dental College Admission Test (MDCAT). The council has established three sub-committees to develop a unified syllabus, propose e-assessment systems, and create comprehensive policy guidelines for the national entrance examination.

The reform represents a significant step towards modernizing Pakistan’s dental and medical education system, with the ultimate goal of producing highly skilled healthcare professionals capable of meeting global standards and challenges.