ISLAMABAD: The Senate Sub-Committee on National Health Services, Regulations, and Coordination convened at Parliament House to review the Medical and Dental College Admission Test (MDCAT) syllabus and entry test policy for overseas medical colleges. Chaired by Senator Anusha Rahman, the meeting was attended by Senator Agha Shahzaib Durrani, Senator Samina Mumtaz Zehri, and the Federal Minister for National Health Services. Key discussions focused on the challenges faced by students from various educational streams and the financial burdens imposed by private tuition academies.
According to Senate of Pakistan, the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) briefed the committee on MDCAT and its historical context. Concerns were raised about the differences in academic backgrounds of FSc, IB, and A-Level students, highlighting the growing dependence on private tuition for MDCAT preparation. The committee noted the need for students to be examined based on their respective educational medium, addressing concerns about the financial strain caused by expensive coaching centers.
The Federal Minister assured the committee of the Ministry’s commitment to addressing genuine concerns. The Minister dismissed attempts by organized tuition groups to delay the test through coordinated text messages, clarifying that MDCAT is scheduled three weeks after board examinations.
Senator Durrani noted the differences between the FSc and A-Level curricula, emphasizing knowledge-based versus analytical skills. The PMDC stated that MDCAT is designed around common learning outcomes from both curricula, ensuring fairness for all candidates. The Minister agreed to review this issue.
The committee also highlighted high tuition fees in private medical colleges, which leave many seats vacant. The need to review the fee structure was emphasized to make education more accessible. The committee acknowledged PMDC’s reforms and recommended awareness campaigns about unrecognized foreign institutions. It also suggested providing returning Pakistani medical graduates with more opportunities for professional training.
Senator Durrani proposed changes to the admission criteria, suggesting weightage adjustments for MDCAT, academic performance, and interviews. However, the PMDC warned that reducing MDCAT’s weightage could undermine its significance. The committee recommended conducting MDCAT twice a year for greater flexibility.
Concluding the session, the Federal Minister directed authorities to provide comprehensive data on MDCAT candidates over the past five years. The committee plans to continue discussions in upcoming meetings.