ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Dental Association (PDA) is set to host a pivotal seminar on Saturday, December 7, 2024, in Islamabad to address the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council's (PMDC) recent decision to expand the Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) program from four to five years. The event, which will feature Principals, Vice Principals, Professors, and senior private practitioners from across the country, aims to deliberate on the implications of the PMDC's decision and propose a comprehensive way forward.
The PMDC’s decision, effective from the 2024-25 academic session, introduces a fifth year labeled as a “clerkship year,” followed by a structured house job or internship. This move, according to the council, is designed to align Pakistani BDS graduates with global educational requirements for international training and employment opportunities. Furthermore, revised five-year transcripts for previous graduates are set to be issued upon request.
However, the PDA has raised significant concerns over the unilateral nature of this decision. In a formal letter to the PMDC President, PDA President Dr. Khurshid Ahmad criticized the lack of stakeholder consultation, emphasizing the need for a broad-based committee to reassess the curriculum.
“Such a significant extension requires detailed deliberation and consultation with stakeholders. The existing four-year program already meets international standards for practice and postgraduate opportunities,” stated Dr. Ahmad.
Seminar to address concerns and chart a path forward
The upcoming seminar, coordinated by Senior Vice President Prof. Ulfat Bashir and Chief Coordinator Prof. Haroon Shahid Qazi, will serve as a platform for the dental community to analyze the impact of the PMDC's decision. Attendees will include key figures from dental colleges and private practice who are expected to contribute valuable insights.
The PDA aims to use this gathering to outline recommendations for the PMDC, ensuring that the curriculum and infrastructure upgrades are practical and align with global standards without causing unnecessary disruptions.
A divided dental community
While the PMDC defends the program expansion as a necessary step for enhancing international recognition, the PDA remains skeptical. It contends that the current four-year program is already globally recognized and fears the additional year may impose undue challenges on students and institutions.
The seminar promises to be a defining moment in the ongoing debate, as stakeholders seek to reconcile differing perspectives and secure the future of dental education in Pakistan.
You can read our earlier detailed coverage of the issue here.