Pakistan Medical Association calls for transparency in MDCAT 2026

Islamabad: The Pakistan Medical Association (PMA) has urged absolute transparency and rigorous security measures for the upcoming Medical and Dental College Admission Test (MDCAT) 2026, set for September 20. Secretary General Dr Abdul Ghafoor Shoro urged an immediate forensic audit of private medical and dental colleges nationwide.

The association has long raised concerns about Pakistan's heavy reliance on high-stakes entrance exams like MDCAT for selecting medical students. Past controversies, including allegations of paper leaks and administrative mismanagement, have eroded public trust in the examination process. Dr Shoro emphasized that the nation urgently needs qualified doctors, necessitating a transparent, secure, and well-administered MDCAT.

The PMA contends that merit-based selection should replace tainted processes, and should prioritize upgrading primary and secondary education over entrance exams. Dr Shoro argued that global standards in foundational schooling would naturally prepare students for advanced medical education, potentially diminishing the need for centralised tests like MDCAT.

The PMA also expressed alarm at the commercialization of medical education, particularly in private institutions, which have grown exponentially in recent years. Some colleges operate with insufficient staff, inefficient structures, and part-time faculty. Certain schools continue to push for higher seat numbers despite failing to meet fundamental educational and clinical requirements, suggesting financial interests over medical training quality.