PMDC is Inviting Gaza Medical & Dental Students to Continue Studies in Pakistan

A recent news from the Pakistan Medical and Dental sector is that the PMDC has is inviting medical/ dental students from Gaza to complete their studies in Pakistan. This decision has been made by the PMDC on humanitarian grounds, while ensuring that the student’s education is not disrupted due to the challenging circumstances in Gaza. The PMDC Council, responding to a request from the Pakistani High Commissioner in London, decided to accommodate Gaza students within Pakistan's medical education system. This initiative aims to provide a stable and resourceful and safe environment for these Gaza medical and dental students to pursue their degrees easily and also to contribute to Gaza's healthcare sector upon their return.

Special Provisions for Clinical Rotations

The PMDC's recent decision comes in response to a request from the Pakistani High Commissioner in London. The High Commissioner emphasized the need to create a stable and resourceful environment for Gaza students. Although the PMDC regulations did not previously include provisions for clinical rotations of foreign students. Despite the absence of specific provisions for the clinical rotation of foreign students under PMDC regulations the Council has decided to accommodate this on special request. The plan includes the arrival of Gaza students in batches of 20 to 30 students, with a total expected number of 100 students. These students will complete their clinical placements in Pakistani medical colleges and attached government sector teaching hospitals and ultimately graduating from universities in Gaza.

Formation of a Coordinating Committee

To ensure a smooth induction of Gaza students in Pakistan medical colleges, institutes and hospitals, a new committee will be established. This committee, headed by the President of PMDC and including representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs MOFA and the Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations & Coordination NHSR&C, will oversee the integration process of medical and dental students from Gaza.

Benefits of Medical Education in Pakistan

Prof. Dr. Rizwan Taj, President of PMDC, highlighted the importance of this excellent initiative. He stated that providing Gaza students with an opportunity to learn in a well-equipped environment will significantly benefit their education, which has been be slowed down in Gaza due to ongoing conflicts and resource constraints. Medical education in Pakistan will offer numerous advantages that these students can bring back to Gaza, positively impacting their communities and the healthcare system. The advanced medical training received in Pakistan will enable Gaza medical students to serve as trainers and mentors, raising the overall standard of medical practice in their community. Additionally, exposure to research and innovative medical practices will help these students contribute to addressing Gaza healthcare needs.

Opportunities for Specialization and Collaboration

Exposure to various medical specialties in Pakistan will allow Gaza students to pursue specific areas of interest, such as cardiology, orthopedics, oncology, pediatrics, or surgery. This will help address critical needs in healthcare system of Gaza. Additionally, the experience will nurture international collaboration, enabling these Gaza graduates to establish connections with global health organizations and attract resources, expertise, and support for healthcare projects in Gaza.