PMDC says revised attendance and passing rules will not apply to MBBS and BDS students till academic session 2024-25
Pakistan Medical Students Association has welcomed the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council’s decision to reinstate mandatory 75% attendance for appearing for final examinations and 50% passing marks for all medical and dental students across the country during the current academic year.
In a statement, the association said the move was an important step toward strengthening academic standards and ensuring consistency in medical education across the country. He added that the restoration of these regulations has brought Pakistan “back in line with globally aligned academic standards” that would help produce competent and responsible healthcare professionals.
The MSA highlighted that medical students are the main stakeholders in matters related to their training. “We urge the Government of Pakistan, the Ministry of Health and the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) to include the voices of medical students in the formulation, review and implementation of future academic and regulatory policies,” the statement said.
Furthermore, he reaffirmed his commitment to representing the concerns and aspirations of medical students across the country. He said he was prepared to work with regulators, institutions and policymakers “to foster a more progressive, equitable and student-friendly medical education system in Pakistan.”
MBBS and BDS students exempt from new passing and attendance rules
Last week, the PMDC clarified that the revised attendance and pass mark requirements will not be applicable for MBBS and BDS students enrolled till the 2024-25 academic session.
The decision, made during the board’s Oct. 21 meeting, follows feedback from universities, medical and dental schools, and requests from students and parents regarding the impact of changes in requirements during the current academic year. In early February, the PMDC increased the passing marks for MBBS and BDS exams from 50% to 70% and raised the attendance requirement from 75% to 90%.
“The Council resolved that revised attendance or passing grade requirements will not apply,” the PMDC announced. “Students already enrolled till the 2024-25 academic session will continue under the previously applicable criteria of 50% minimum passing marks and 75% minimum attendance, as stipulated at the time of their admission or enrollment in MBBS or BDS programmes.”
For future cohorts, the council proposed a 5% gradual increase in attendance and passing grade requirements. The change will be subject to further review in consultation with universities, medical educators and other relevant stakeholders. “The final criteria will be communicated in due time,” he said.
