UHS Approves New Five-Year BDS Program with Fee Waiver for Final Year

The University of Health Sciences (UHS) has made a significant stride in dental education by approving an integrated five-year curriculum for the Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) program. This change, effective from the 2024-25 academic session, will replace the existing four-year BDS structure in dental colleges across Punjab.

A key highlight of this update is the decision to waive tuition fees for the fifth year, termed the “clerkship” year, in both public and private dental colleges. This move aims to align Pakistan’s dental education with global standards by providing students with extended practical training and hands-on experience.

Faculty Training to Ensure Smooth Implementation

During the Board of Studies in Dentistry meeting, chaired by UHS Vice Chancellor Prof. Ahsan Waheed Rathore, it was announced that comprehensive faculty training would be completed by December 2024 and January 2025. The training will equip subject specialists and medical education experts across affiliated dental colleges with the skills required to implement the new curriculum effectively.

Prof. Rathore emphasized that the clerkship year would not only enhance practical skills but also offer workforce support to dental colleges. He advocated for a stipend model or, at the very least, a fee waiver for the final year, a proposal that received unanimous support from board members.

A Curriculum Designed for Global Recognition

Prof. Rathore described the new curriculum as a “living document,” designed to evolve with the needs of the dental profession. He expressed his vision for Pakistani dental graduates to achieve international recognition, particularly in the US and UK. He hopes this initiative will eventually exempt Pakistani graduates from foreign licensing exams, showcasing the credibility of their education.

Additionally, the updated curriculum will prioritize life-saving skills, with every graduate trained in basic life support (BLS), advanced life support (ALS), cardiac first response, and emergency protocols.

This progressive change marks a significant milestone in advancing dental education in Pakistan, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to meet international standards and healthcare demands.

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