Islamabad: Syed Mustafa Kamal, Federal Minister for National Health Services, Regulations, and Coordination, has announced an initiative to expand access to medical and dental education for students from Balochistan and FATA. In a press conference at the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PM and DC) head office, Minister Kamal outlined plans to allocate 333 additional seats for students from these regions.

The expansion of seats is intended to address deep-rooted regional disparities and promote equitable access to education. The decision was made following recommendations from the Senate Standing Committee on National Health Services, Regulations, and Coordination.

Minister Kamal emphasized the significance of this policy, stating it aims to build a healthcare system that reflects the strength and diversity of Pakistan. He expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister, Mr. Shahbaz Sharif, for his leadership, and to the PM and DC for their efforts in implementing this initiative.

A notification regarding the additional seats has been issued for the current academic year. Public medical and dental colleges in FATA and Balochistan have been instructed to apply for seat enhancements, adhering to PM and DC rules and criteria.

The provincial governments have been advised to expedite the allocation process to ensure no capable student is denied access to education due to socio-economic or geographic barriers. The PM and DC will oversee the implementation to maintain transparency and fairness.

Minister Kamal reiterated the initiative’s aim to foster national integration and uplift communities, emphasizing the importance of aligning leadership and policy for the greater national interest.