The National Assembly was informed that private medical colleges in Pakistan cannot increase their fees without approval. The government is also taking steps to protect students from excessive charges.
Federal Health Minister Syed Mustafa Kamal said Pakistan has around 22,000 medical college seats. About 65 per cent of these seats are in private colleges, while 35 per cent are available in government institutions.
He said private medical colleges cannot charge more than the approved fee of Rs2.1 million.
Government takes action over medical fees
Parliamentary Secretary for National Health Services Nelson Azeem said a committee formed under the prime minister had reviewed private medical college fees.
The committee fixed the fee at Rs1.8 million per student. However, several colleges requested higher fees because of their facilities and operating expenses.
After the submission of 61 colleges appeals with supporting documents, the committee accepted the cases of 35 institutions. These colleges were allowed to charge up to Rs2.1 million.
A complaint portal has also been introduced for students and parents. Notices have been issued to 45 institutions. Action may be taken if they fail to justify their fees or provide the required information.
Limited seats for medical
Mustafa Kamal said around 96,000 students passed the MDCAT last year, but only about 22,000 secured admission to medical colleges.
Many Pakistani students therefore travel abroad for medical education. Pakistani students spend around $800 million in foreign exchange on medical education overseas.
The Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) has published a list of recognised foreign medical colleges to help students choose suitable institutions.
The minister also said there is currently a three-year stay on establishing new private medical colleges. However, the restriction does not apply to government medical colleges.
Pakistani students who complete medical degrees abroad must pass a PMDC examination before practising in Pakistan, to meet the country’s professional standards.
Also read: New exam system announced for Punjab medical students