PMDC orders return of Afghan students

KEMU among first universities to act on PMDC directives

LAHORE:

Lahore's King Edward Medical University (Kemu) is one of the first public universities to act on fresh directives issued by the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) a significant regulatory decision affecting Afghan medical students enrolled in medical and dental institutions in Pakistan.

The move requires Afghan medical and dental students currently studying in Pakistan to complete official formalities for their return to Afghanistan while also suspending future admissions, transfers and migration involving Afghan nationals.

The development marks a major shift in the country's policy governing foreign medical students and is expected to have far-reaching implications for academic institutions and the affected students alike.

Acting on PMDC instructions issued on September 1, Kemu has directed 20 Afghan MBBS students to report to the Assistant Registrar (MBBS Office) within 24 hours to complete all legal and administrative requirements.

University records show that a total of 22 Afghan nationals are associated with the institution including 20 students currently enrolled in the MBBS programme and two who recently completed graduation. Among those affected are seven final-year students who were approaching the completion of their medical education.

"The university has begun processing the documentation required under the PMDC directive including the issuance of No Objection Certificates (NOCs), verification of academic records, immigration related paperwork and other institutional clearances necessary before students leave Pakistan.

"The administration has instructed students to remain in contact with it to ensure that all mandatory procedures are completed within the prescribed timeframe," said a Kemu official. The PMDC's directive extends beyond Kemu and is understood to apply to all recognised medical and dental colleges in Pakistan.

Alongside the repatriation process for existing Afghan students, the regulator has imposed an immediate suspension on new admissions, student transfers and migration applications involving Afghan nationals until further notice.

Medical institutions have been instructed to ensure full compliance with the regulatory order while coordinating with relevant government authorities wherever required. The decision is expected to have its greatest impact on students nearing graduation, particularly those in the final year of MBBS.

Medical education experts note that interruptions during the clinical phase of medical training can present significant academic challenges.

Universities are therefore processing transcripts, examination records and other academic documents to facilitate the transfer or continuation of studies wherever possible under the applicable regulations.

On the other hand, hostel administrations have also initiated standard exit procedures for affected students residing on campus.

According to university sources, students will be required to complete hostel clearance, return university-issued property, settle outstanding accommodation and mess charges, obtain library and laboratory clearances and vacate their rooms after completing institutional formalities.

Their hostel residency will remain subject to their legal status and continued eligibility under university regulations during the transition period.