PMDC Greenlights New Curriculum for Medical and Dental Colleges

PAKISTAN: The Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) has taken a significant stride in the pursuit of advancing medical education in the country. 

During the inaugural meeting of the academic year 2023-24, the PMDC’s Academic Board unanimously approved the National Medical and Dental curriculum. This landmark decision is aimed at raising the quality of medical education in Pakistan and aligning it with global standards.

Strengthening Collaboration for Progress

In a display of collective commitment, the Chairman of the Higher Education Commission (HEC) and the President of the College of Physicians and Surgeons Pakistan (CPSP) pledged their unwavering support and cooperation to the PMDC Council in this endeavour. 

The combined efforts of these esteemed institutions aim to reinforce and enhance the landscape of medical education in the country.

Among the vital tasks undertaken by the Academic Board, the development of criteria, regulations, and proforma for Continuing Medical Education/Continuing Professional Development (CME/CPD) programs took center stage. 

These initiatives are specifically designed to nurture the professional growth and development of doctors, fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement in the medical community.

In tandem with the CME/CPD efforts, the CPSP offered its support and shared measures they had taken to achieve similar goals. 

The committee envisioned the establishment of CME/CPD credit hours for both general and specialist medical/dental practitioners. These credit hours would play a pivotal role in renewing their PMDC licenses, ensuring adherence to the highest standards of medical practice.

Seeking International Recognition

The leadership of PMDC, under the guidance of Prof Dr Rizwan Taj, the President of PMDC, has been proactive in seeking international recognition for Pakistan’s medical education system. 

The council applied for accreditation from the World Federation for Medical Education (WFME) and took significant strides to strengthen ties with medical and dental colleges in pursuit of WFME recognition.

The Academic Board, comprising highly qualified professionals from all provinces of Pakistan, is well-known both nationally and internationally. 

This 21-member board, led by Prof Dr Zahid Aman, Dean of Khyber Girls Medical College Peshawar, will serve a four-year term. Dr Syed Azhar Ali Shah efficiently assists the forum as the Secretary to the Board, ensuring effective collaboration and smooth functioning.

Continuation of Progressive Policies

The current Academic Board has built upon the policies established by the previous board, all of which were implemented in the best interest of students and doctors. 

These policies encompassed critical examinations such as the Medical and Dental Colleges Admission Test (MDCAT)/National Residency Exam (NRE) and National Examination Board (NEB) examinations, which remain integral to fostering excellence in medical education and practice in Pakistan.