BDS program duration extended by one year

The Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) announced on Friday that the Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) program duration will be extended from four to five years, starting with the 2024-25 session.

PMDC President Prof Dr Rizwan Taj said that the decision had been taken in view of the challenges faced by Pakistan's BDS graduates in securing training and employment abroad, where the BDS programme was a five-year degree rather than four years.

The PMDC has decided to extend the BDS program in Pakistan to five years, with the fifth year designated as a clerkship year, followed by a one-year structured house job, Dr. Taj announced in a statement. The new program will take effect from the 2024-25 session, he added.

"The additional year will allow students to gain a deeper theoretical understanding of dental sciences. With extended clinical training, students will be better prepared to handle real-world dental challenges with competence and confidence," he said.

"This initiative will bring Pakistan's dental education system in line with global standards, facilitating greater international recognition of Pakistani graduates. This enhancement will equip graduates with advanced skills and knowledge, thus strengthening their competitiveness in the healthcare sector."

Meanwhile, the Pakistan Dental Association (PDA) rejected the extension in the BDS programme, citing increased financial burden it would place on students. Talking to The Express Tribune, PDA President Dr Khurshid Ahmed said that the move offers no tangible benefits, while its drawbacks are evident.