Planning Commission Urges Reforms in MBBS and BDS Evaluation System
The Planning Commission of Pakistan has recommended urgent reforms in the evaluation system for MBBS and BDS students, describing the current method as too strict compared to regional standards. The proposal has been forwarded to the federal health ministry for review.
Sources revealed that many medical students approached the Deputy Chairman of the Planning Commission, highlighting that even high-performing candidates fail if they miss a single mark in theory exams. Currently, students must score at least 50% in both theory and practical exams separately. For example, failing one theory block—even with full marks in practicals—leads to disqualification for the entire year.
In the July 2025 supplementary exams, over 500 first-year MBBS students out of 1,195 failed, with the total number of failed MBBS and BDS students nearing 1,700.
Students noted that in India, medical results follow a weighted average system, where theory and practical marks are combined. Achieving 50% overall is enough to pass. In Pakistan, however, even a one-mark shortfall in theory can cause a student to lose an entire year.
The Planning Commission, after reviewing the complaints, agreed that the current system is unfair, especially when illness or emergencies affect performance. They recommended that students who fail narrowly should be reassessed using the weighted average formula, allowing those with at least 50% combined marks to pass immediately.
The findings have been shared with Federal Health Minister Syed Kamal Mustafa. The report urges the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) to amend regulations and instruct universities to apply fair assessment methods.
Parents and students are also raising concerns about financial burdens, as private medical colleges charge PKR 2.5–2.8 million annually. Repeating a year due to minor marks adds significant economic strain, particularly for families affected by recent floods.
The proposed reforms aim to ensure fairness, reduce stress on students, and prevent unnecessary financial hardship.
