Reference Article/Letter in Dental News “MDCAT Fiasco: Where is Pakistan Dental Association”
It appears that the author is not aware of Pakistan Dental Association (PDA)’s role in MDCAT Fiasco.
To elaborate, PDA has been made Respondent in the case filed by some Private Dental Colleges, and MDCAT afflicted students in the Honorable Sindh High Court. Pakistan Dental Association has taken a principled stand on this matter and given its stand as under; to the Honorable Sindh High Court, that:
Last year, admission in BDS was on Rolling Basis and closed at an MDCAT score of 26.5%. But now Pakistan Medical Commission (PMC) has abruptly increased the admission percentage of MDCAT to 60% and above only.
All over the world, standards and bars are raised gradually, and clear road maps are announced 2-3 years beforehand.
No reason has been given by the Pakistan Medical Commission (PMC) for this abrupt raising of MDCAT percentage.
This has created an Acute Crisis, especially in Sindh Province, whereby 650 BDS seats lie vacant. Students with 65% and above qualifying marks in the Intermediate Examination are denied admission because of this Arbitrary rise in MDCAT percentage by PMC.
Already the dentist: population ratio is very poor, especially in rural areas. And such actions will enhance the vacuum of Qualified Dentists, which Quacks will take up.
Arbitrary Relief of One Year may be provided. Then the Admission Criteria should be decided by Pakistan Medical Commission after meaningful consultations with all stakeholders, including PMA, PDA, PAMI and Parents/Students representatives.
PDA Secretary-General Prof. Nasir Ali Khan and the undersigned have held numerous meetings, including meetings and press briefings with PMA on this matter.
Moreover, PDA has also objected to the arbitrary matter in which Pakistan Medical Commission has been formed. And issued a detailed Press Release, as follows on the matter:
As the matter is Sub-judice and multiple cases have been filed in Honorable Courts now, PDA is refraining from issuing any Press Release/Press Conferences, as this may amount to Contempt of Court.
Rest assured, PDA is alive to this Issue and all government policy matters, as and when they arise and boldly pursue them.