Sindh Cabinet Approves MDCAT Reforms, Assigns Testing Responsibility to IBA Sukkur
The Sindh Cabinet has approved a set of significant reforms, including a major decision to assign the responsibility of conducting the Medical and Dental College Admission Test (MDCAT) to the Sukkur IBA Testing Agency (SIBA) for the upcoming academic session. The move aims to ensure transparency, standardization, and strict adherence to national guidelines.
The announcement was made following a cabinet meeting held at the Chief Minister’s House, chaired by Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah and attended by provincial ministers, advisors, secretaries, and other senior officials.
New MDCAT Admission Policy Finalized
A comprehensive MDCAT admission policy has been finalized for MBBS and BDS programs in both public and private medical and dental colleges across Sindh. The policy is in line with the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) Act, 2022 and recent directives from the Sindh High Court.
Key highlights of the policy include:
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Strict merit criteria as per PMDC guidelines
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Mandatory Sindh domicile, verified through Juvenile Cards and biometric authentication
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Fixed seat allocation and distribution, to be published in the official prospectus for Session 2024-25
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No alteration of seat distribution by admitting universities
IBA Sukkur to Conduct MDCAT 2025
The Sukkur IBA Testing Agency (SIBA) has been selected to conduct MDCAT 2025 based on its satisfactory performance in the previous session. However, future testing agency selections will be performance-based, allowing flexibility for improvement and accountability.
The Sindh Health Department retains the authority to directly oversee or delegate the admissions process to a nominated medical university. When handled by a university, a supervisory committee will be formed to monitor the admissions process and ensure compliance with the approved policy.
Heritage Building Reassessment Also Approved
In addition to education reforms, the Sindh Cabinet has also approved a province-wide reassessment of 3,371 protected heritage buildings. The initiative is aimed at preserving Sindh’s cultural and historical legacy through proper documentation and review.
These decisions mark a significant step toward enhancing educational transparency and cultural preservation in Sindh. Further details will be shared in official notifications issued by the concerned departments.
