Web Desk: Medical students staged a strong protest outside the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) in Islamabad on Wednesday. They chanted slogans against the administration and demanded the withdrawal of recent policy changes.
According to reports, students gathered at the main gate of the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council and staged a sit-in.
They voiced anger over the increase in the attendance and marks ratio for the Medical and Dental College Admission Test (MDCAT).
Tensions escalated when clashes between protesters and police took place.
Students accused the PMDC of introducing “anti-education” policies. They also chanted slogans against PMDC’s incompetence and policies.
They also demanded the withdrawal of the new attendance and marks ratio requirements.
Protesters also criticised the PMDC President and Registrar, chanting slogans against the institution.
A heavy police contingent was deployed around the PMDC headquarters. Additionally, tight security measures were put in place to prevent more unrest.
The students have vowed to continue their sit-in until all their demands are accepted.
Increase in Attendance and Marks Ratio in MDCAT
The Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) recently introduced new academic requirements for MBBS and BDS students, raising both the passing marks and attendance criteria.
According to an official notification, the minimum attendance requirement has been increased from 75 per cent to 90 per cent.
Sources say it aims to ensure that students receive adequate classroom and clinical exposure.
Likewise, the passing marks for annual MBBS and BDS examinations have been raised from 50 per cent to 70 per cent.
The PMDC has also made Chemistry and Biology compulsory subjects for expatriate candidates seeking admission to medical and dental programs in Pakistan.
These measures are intended to improve academic standards and ensure quality medical education across the country, according to the PMDC.
However, medical students have now started protesting against the increase in attendance and marks ratio in MDCAT.
