PMDC Announces Relief Measures for AJK MDCAT Aspirants
News Desk
Islamabad: The Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) has announced special measures for medical and dental college aspirants from Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) following difficulties faced by students due to prolonged internet disruptions in the region.
The MDCAT 2026 examination has been rescheduled for September, while the PMDC has established a dedicated examination centre in Islamabad to facilitate AJK candidates who may face challenges in accessing the test arrangements.
The decisions were taken during a meeting between AJK Health Secretary Brigadier Aamir Raza, Joint Admission Committee Chairman Professor Dr Faisal Bashir and senior PMDC officials, including President Professor Dr Rizwan Taj, Registrar Brigadier (Retd) Rehan Naqvi and Director Admission Affairs Dr Imdad Ali Khushk.
AJK officials informed the PMDC that the ongoing internet shutdown had created serious hurdles for students attempting to complete their MDCAT registration. They requested special support to ensure eligible candidates were not deprived of the opportunity to appear in the entrance examination.
PMDC President Dr Rizwan Taj said the council had extended the registration deadline twice to provide relief to students affected by connectivity issues. The deadline was initially extended until July 13 and later further extended until July 23, 2026.
To assist candidates from AJK, the PMDC allowed alternative registration methods, including submission through WhatsApp, email, postal services and in-person applications, in addition to the online registration system.
The council has also appointed a focal person to guide students through registration and examination-related matters. A public notice has been issued regarding the special MDCAT examination facility established in Islamabad for AJK candidates.
During the meeting, the PMDC and AJK authorities also reached a preliminary agreement to establish a regional PMDC office in Azad Kashmir. The proposal will be presented before the PMDC Governing Body for formal approval.
Officials said the measures were aimed at ensuring that students from AJK are not disadvantaged in the medical admission process due to communication and technical challenges caused by the internet disruptions.
