The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) in Pakistan has launched a probe into the alleged “unlawful registration” of 15 medical colleges, including well-established institutions in Abbottabad, Lahore, and Karachi. The focus is on the recognition granted by the now-defunct Pakistan Medical Council (PMC) in 2020, a process lacking proper inspection. Subsequent years saw no follow-up inspections, prompting concerns about the legitimacy of the registration.
Four officials from the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC), notably Deputy Director (Law) Sarah Rabab and Assistant Administration Shaan Elahi, have been summoned in connection with the inquiry. In response, the PMDC has prudently suspended admissions to these colleges for the current academic year, pending a comprehensive inspection and council decision.
Prominent institutions like Abbottabad International Medical College and Dow International Dental College are among those labeled as “illegally registered.” The investigation underscores the necessity for a thorough examination to ensure compliance with standards in medical education. The FIA’s involvement signals the authorities’ commitment to addressing potential irregularities, emphasizing the significance of upholding the integrity of the country’s medical education system.
