Fee Reduction Request: On August 6, 2024, KP Higher Education Minister Meena Khan Afridi requested the PMDC to reduce the MDCAT fee, citing the financial burden on students from low-income families.
Current Fee Structure: The PMDC increased the MDCAT fee from Rs6,000 to Rs8,000. This hike has raised concerns, especially among students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Justification by PMDC
• PMDC Registrar Dr. Shaista Faisal stated that the fee is necessary to cover the costs of conducting the test.
• The actual expenditure per candidate ranges between Rs1,500 and Rs2,000.
• The test is held at district levels to minimize travel costs for students, which contributes to the overall fee.
Minister Afridi’s Concerns
• Afridi highlighted that the increased fee is a significant financial burden on many families in KP, a region affected by conflict and poverty.
• He urged the PMDC to reduce the fee to make the test more accessible to poor students.
PMDC’s Commitment
• The PMDC emphasized that the fee is set at the minimum level required to maintain high standards and ensure transparency.
• The council collaborates with public universities to hold the test at district levels for the convenience of students.
Impact on Students
• The decision to maintain the current fee structure may discourage talented students from pursuing a career in medicine.
• Many fear that the financial burden will limit access to medical education for those from low-income backgrounds.
Transparency and Merit
• The PMDC is committed to ensuring that the MDCAT is conducted in a fair and transparent manner, with admissions based purely on merit.
• The council purchases question papers from reputable institutions and focuses on maintaining the integrity of the test.
Conclusion
• As the MDCAT date approaches, the debate over the fee continues.
• While the PMDC insists on the necessity of the current fee, there is ongoing pressure to find a more affordable solution to ensure equal access to medical education.
