ISLAMABAD: The private medical colleges in Pakistan are not in a position to increase their fee on their. About 65 percent medical colleges are operating in the private sector while 35 percent are the government-owned institutions.
This information was revealed in the National Assembly today. Around 22,000 medical college seats are available nationwide.
Medical Fee Regulation Tightened
Minister for National Health Services Syed Mustafa Kamal said private medical colleges cannot charge more than Rs2.1 million annually.
He said colleges cannot increase fees independently. Meanwhile, Parliamentary Secretary Nelson Azeem said the government is strengthening oversight of medical college charges.
A committee initially fixed fees at Rs1.8 million per student. However, 61 colleges appealed, citing higher expenses and better facilities.
After reviewing their documents, the committee approved higher fees for 35 institutions, allowing them to charge Rs2.1 million.
Azeem said authorities created a complaint portal for students and parents. Notices were also issued to 45 institutions over fee and tax-related concerns.
Students Turn to Foreign Medical Colleges
Mustafa Kamal said around 96,000 students passed the MDCAT last year, but only about 22,000 gained medical college admission.
Consequently, many Pakistani students pursue medical education abroad, particularly in Central Asian countries.
The minister said Pakistanis spend around $800 million in foreign exchange on overseas medical education.
He said the PMDC has published recognised foreign institutions to guide students.
Pakistan government has imposed a ban for three years on establishing new medical colleges in the country.
