Recently, there was a significant upgrade made for students considering BDS programs. The duration of the BDS program has been extended by the University of Health Sciences (UHS). The Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) program has been approved in principle by UHS to implement a new modular integrated curriculum, extending its four-year duration to a newly determined duration. Vice Chancellor Prof. Ahsan Waheed Rathore chaired the 48th meeting of the UHS Board of Studies in Dentistry on Friday when the approval was granted. Beginning with the 2024–2025 academic year, all conventional and private dental colleges and institutes associated with the UHS are required to implement this new modular integrated curriculum. Continue reading this page for more information about the adjustments to the duration of the Bachelor of Dental Surgery program.

UHS BDS Program Extended Duration

The BDS program’s revised modular integrated curriculum and five-year overall duration have been authorized by the University of Health Sciences (UHS). We also want to let you know that the BDS curriculum that is currently in use was created in 2005, and it is about to undergo revisions after nearly 20 years of use. Official preparations have already been made for a framework for this aim. Beginning with the academic year 2024–2025, all regular and private dental colleges in Punjab will use the new curriculum. 

BDS Upgraded Curriculum 

Created in January of this year, a directing committee was entrusted with creating the schedule and structure for the upcoming BDS modular curriculum. Experts in medical education and representatives from dental colleges made up the group, which was conducted by the Head of the UHS Oral Biology Department, Prof. Sarah Ghafoor. Along with clinical, foundational, and rotation modules, the new curriculum will include modules on professionalism, ethics, research, and leadership skills. It will also contain rotational, clinical and foundational modules.

UHS Financial Allocation And Budget 

Under the direction of Justice (retired) Sheikh Ahmad Farooq, the UHS Board of Governors approved a budget of Rs. 2,428 million for the fiscal year 2024–25 on June 26. The annual development plan has a budget of Rs 241.9 million, of which Rs 88.4 million is allotted for staff wages and Rs 82 million is for research and scholarships. As an additional ad hoc relief allowance, a 25% salary increase for employees was approved. Additionally, the budget includes Rs 10 million for testing, Rs 65 million for lab supplies, Rs 50 million for campus infrastructure upgrades, and Rs 250 million for the families of deceased employees. 

Updates And Improvements To The Curriculum 

An electronic logbook and portfolio system will take the place of the program’s present clinical quota. Additionally, basic life support instruction is now a required component of the curriculum. It’s also crucial to remember that UHS offers over 750 exams a year. The goal of these extensive adjustments is to raise the bar for Pakistani dentistry graduates’ education and make them more competitive worldwide. 

Remarks From The Vice-Chancellor Of UHS 

UHS Vice-Chancellor Prof. Ahsan Waheed Rathore said following the 48th meeting of the UHS Board of Studies in Dentistry that this choice will improve Pakistan’s dental degree and graduates’ standing internationally. Additionally, he stated that the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council will receive the new curriculum for official approval.