In a significant policy shift, Hafiz-e-Quran students applying to medical colleges will no longer receive additional marks as part of the admission process.
This change marks a departure from previous practices and is expected to have a notable impact on the selection criteria for medical institutions in Pakistan.
The decision to abolish the extra marks was officially confirmed by the Punjab Health Department, aligning it with the directives of the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC).
Under the previous policy, Hafiz-e-Quran candidates were granted a 20-mark advantage in the merit calculation during the admissions process. This practice had been in place for some time but recently came under scrutiny.
The issue reached the Supreme Court of Pakistan in April, where a six-member bench, led by Justice Ijazul Ahsan, took notice of the matter.
During the proceedings, the PMDC's lawyer, Afnan Kundi, informed the bench that the decision to award additional marks to Hafiz-e-Quran candidates had already been revoked.
Upon hearing this update, Justice Ijazul Ahsan determined that there was no ongoing dispute or issue to address, leading to the closure of the suo motu case. This legal development, therefore, brought finality to the matter.
The change in the admission policy is seen as a move toward a more equitable and merit-based system.
It ensures that all candidates, regardless of their qualifications, will compete on a level playing field for coveted spots in medical and dental colleges across Punjab.
This decision reflects a broader commitment to transparency and fairness within the admissions process, emphasizing the importance of merit as the primary criterion for selecting students in medical and dental institutes.
As the new policy takes immediate effect, it is expected to reshape the landscape of admissions, ultimately ensuring a more equitable educational system for all aspiring medical professionals.
