Staff Reporter:
Karachi, Pakistan: A new crisis has emerged in Sindh regarding the Medical and Dental Colleges Admission Test (MD CAT). IBA Karachi has declined to conduct the test due to resource constraints and a lack of expertise, while IBA Sukkur has expressed its willingness to take on the task.
IBA Karachi’s Stance:
Dr. Shakeel Ahmed Khoja, Acting Executive Director of IBA Karachi, cited a 2002 decision by the Board of Governors to refrain from operating as a third-party testing agency until the institution acquires the necessary expertise and capacity. The letter further highlighted the difference in the governing acts of IBA Karachi and IBA Sukkur, which could potentially lead to inconsistencies in testing standards and administration.
IBA Karachi’s Recommendation:
IBA Karachi has recommended that the MDCAT be entrusted to a single entity, proposing IBA Sukkur as the most suitable candidate. The institution has pledged to provide logistical support to ensure the smooth conduct of the test.
High-Level Meeting:
A recent meeting attended by Secretary Health Rehan Baloch and senior officials from both IBAs failed to resolve the issue. Despite the Sindh High Court’s order, IBA Karachi remained adamant in its refusal to conduct the test.
Historical Context:
It’s worth noting that IBA Karachi, under the leadership of Dr. Abdul Wahab, successfully administered the MD CAT for many years. However, subsequent administrative changes led to the 2002 decision to discontinue the practice.
Legal Implications:
The Sindh High Court’s ruling to nullify the MDCAT conducted by Dow Medical University and assign the task to two testing institutions, including IBA Karachi, adds another layer of complexity to the situation.
As the crisis unfolds, it remains to be seen how the Sindh government will address the issue and ensure the timely and fair conduct of the MDCAT for aspiring medical and dental students.
