The Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) has ordered ten universities to immediately halt unrecognized medical and dental programs.
The council warned that several institutions are awarding postgraduate degrees and diplomas without fulfilling mandatory accreditation requirements.
Officials emphasized that continuing such programs violates Section 25 of the PMDC Act, 2022.
Universities offering these programs must follow formal recognition procedures before launching courses.
Failure to comply may result in legal action and disqualification of qualifications awarded.
Universities Listed in PMDC Notice
The PMDC specifically named ten universities in its public notice.
These include Times University Multan, NUR International University Lahore, Gomal University D.I. Khan, and Sohail University Karachi.
Others on the list are Shah Abdul Latif University Khairpur, Khwaja Fareed University of Engineering and Information Technology Rahim Yar Khan, University of Faisalabad, and University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
Additionally, Hazara University Mansehra and Kohat University of Science and Technology were included.
Authorities clarified that institutions cannot affiliate with or operate any unrecognized programs.
This ensures that postgraduate medical and dental qualifications meet legal and educational standards.
Legal Framework for Recognition
According to Section 34 of the PMDC Act, 2022, universities are prohibited from offering medical or dental programs without prior recognition.
The law also forbids advertising or conducting courses that do not meet accreditation standards.
Programs must receive formal approval from the PMDC before enrolling students.
This regulation ensures quality education and protects the integrity of medical qualifications in Pakistan.
Students enrolled in unrecognized programs will not be registered, and their qualifications will hold no legal validity.
Impact on Students and Institutions
The council warned that any students currently enrolled in unrecognized programs will not have their degrees registered.
Universities are required to immediately suspend all activities related to these courses.
No institution is allowed to promote, advertise, or operate postgraduate programs without PMDC approval.
Compliance is critical to safeguard students’ future careers and maintain the credibility of Pakistan’s medical education system.
PMDC’s directive emphasizes that legal and quality standards take priority over institutional convenience or revenue.
Steps for Universities Seeking Recognition
Institutions wishing to offer postgraduate medical or dental courses must submit applications for formal recognition.
The process involves fulfilling all criteria outlined in the PMDC Act, 2022.
After verification and approval, universities may legally launch programs and enroll students.
The PMDC encourages universities to comply promptly to avoid penalties and legal consequences.
Authorities stress that maintaining educational standards protects students, patients, and the medical profession at large.
Ensuring Quality in Medical Education
This action reflects PMDC’s commitment to regulating postgraduate education in Pakistan.
By halting unrecognized programs, the council aims to uphold accreditation standards and professional integrity.
Universities must operate transparently and adhere strictly to legal requirements.
Students and families are advised to verify program recognition before enrolling in any postgraduate medical or dental course.
Ultimately, PMDC’s enforcement safeguards both education quality and public trust in healthcare professionals.
