Syed Muhammad Yaseen
Islamabad: Medical students have strongly criticized the recent policies of the Higher Education Commission, Pakistan (HEC) and the Pakistan Medical & Dental Council (PMDC), protesting the reduction of 211 medical seats and demanding the immediate restoration of all 333 seats.
According to the students, 8 seats were allocated from Azad Kashmir and approximately 114 seats from KMU. However, no seats have been provided by Punjab, Balochistan, or Sindh, causing serious concern. They stated that the reduction of 211 seats has left the educational futures of hundreds of students uncertain.
Concern Over Reduction of 211 Seats
Student leaders emphasized that instead of increasing seats, reducing them goes against the principles of educational fairness. They highlighted that this decision not only undermines students’ fundamental right to education but also limits opportunities for youth from underprivileged regions.
Demand to Halt Placements
The students have urged HEC to halt any student placements until all legitimate and complete seats are restored. They warned that partial or unfair placement could create further complications.
Need to Promote Education in Former FATA and Balochistan
Students stressed that in former FATA and Balochistan, educational development—especially establishing medical colleges and increasing seats—should take priority over operations, ensuring sustainable development and regional stability.
The author is an MBBS student and founder of Students Nexus By SMY.
