News Desk
ISLAMABAD: The decision by the Higher Education Commission Pakistan and the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council to sharply reduce medical seats reserved for students from the former FATA and Balochistan has sparked widespread criticism from education advocates, student groups, and community leaders.
FATA and Balochistan have historically faced prolonged socio-economic hardships, underdevelopment, and security challenges, prompting calls for targeted educational support and opportunities. Stakeholders emphasize that these regions require enhanced access to higher education, particularly in professional fields such as medicine, to improve healthcare services locally and uplift long-neglected communities.
Critics say that instead of expanding opportunities, the recent revision slashed the combined quota significantly — reducing seats from 333 in prior years to just 120 total for both regions. Under the new distribution, only 60 seats each have been earmarked for FATA and Balochistan students, a move described as unjust and discouraging for aspiring medical professionals from these areas.
Education advocates argue that restricting medical seats will further widen the gap in educational equity, undermining national goals for inclusive development and equitable access to quality education. They warn that the reduction could discourage students from pursuing careers in medicine, particularly in under-served regions that desperately need more healthcare professionals.
Meanwhile, stakeholders have urged relevant authorities to review and reverse the seat reduction policy, restore the original quota, and implement additional support measures such as scholarships, preparatory programs, and targeted assistance to level the playing field for FATA and Balochistan students seeking medical education.
