Sindh Health Minister Advocates Decentralized MDCAT

Push for University-Level Autonomy in Medical Testing

PAKISTAN: Health Minister Dr Azra Pechuho has proposed a major restructuring of the Medical and Dental Colleges Admission Test (MDCAT). According to a recent report from ProPakistani, Dr Pechuho is advocating for individual universities to conduct their own admission tests, moving away from the current national-level examination system.

Concerns Over Current Testing System

Dr Pechuho highlighted significant issues with the existing centralized testing approach. “Administering the test on a national level with so many students at once compromises the integrity of the process,” she stated, emphasizing that a decentralized approach would enhance transparency and minimize the risk of examination paper leaks.

New Healthcare Training Facility Launch

The Minister’s comments came during a notable healthcare development event – the inauguration of a new Family Planning Skills Lab at Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre (JPMC). The facility, established with USAID support, represents a significant step forward in Sindh’s healthcare infrastructure.

Focus on Reproductive Healthcare

During the inauguration ceremony, attended by USAID Mission Director Kate Somvongsiri, Dr Pechuho emphasized the critical importance of family planning services. The Minister specifically noted that “accessible family planning services are essential” in addressing crucial healthcare challenges, including unsafe abortions and improving child-spacing practices.

Broader Healthcare Initiatives

The Health Minister’s agenda extended beyond medical education and family planning. The report indicates she also stressed the importance of strengthening routine immunisation efforts, particularly regarding polio prevention, while also highlighting the need for increased vigilance against mosquito-borne illnesses such as dengue and malaria.

International Collaboration

The initiative showcases the ongoing partnership between Sindh’s healthcare sector and international development organizations. Dr Pechuho expressed appreciation for USAID’s role in establishing the advanced training facility, which aims to enhance the quality of maternal and child health services across the province.

This comprehensive development in Sindh’s healthcare sector, as reported by ProPakistani, marks a significant step toward improving both medical education standards and healthcare service delivery in the province.