LAHORE – The University of Health Sciences (UHS) has approved the introduction of a new modular integrated curriculum for the BDS program, extending its duration from four years to five years.
It was decided at the 48th meeting of the UHS Board of Studies in Dentistry which was held on Friday under the chairmanship of Vice-Chancellor Professor Ahsan Waheed Rathore.
It is noteworthy that the current curriculum, taught in dental colleges, was established in 2005. UHS has now decided to revise this nearly 20-year-old curriculum, and a framework has already been prepared for this purpose. The Board of Studies has also decided to implement this updated curriculum in all dental colleges across Punjab starting from the academic session 2024-25.
The members were informed that a steering committee was formed in January of this year to develop the framework and timeline for the new modular curriculum. This committee, chaired by Professor Sarah Ghafoor, Head of the UHS Oral Biology Department, included principals of dental colleges and medical education experts.
According to the framework developed by the committee, the new curriculum features vertical, horizontal, and spiral integration, with modules on professionalism, ethics, research, and leadership skills. Additionally, it includes clinical, foundational, and rotation modules.
The current clinical quota in the program will be replaced by a logbook and portfolio. Furthermore, basic life support training has been made an integral part of the curriculum.
UHS Vice Chancellor stated that this decision will enhance the international recognition of Pakistan’s dental degree. He further mentioned that the new curriculum will be submitted to the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council for formal approval.
