BDS Program Duration Extended to Five Years in Punjab

In a significant development for dental education in Punjab, the duration of the Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) degree program has been officially increased from four years to five years. This decision was reached during the 49th meeting of the Board of Studies Dentistry at the University of Health Sciences (UHS) Lahore. The change aims to enhance the quality of dental education and better prepare future dentists for their professional responsibilities.

One of the most notable aspects of this decision is that both public and private dental colleges will not impose any fees for the newly added fifth year. This move is expected to alleviate financial burdens on students and encourage more individuals to pursue a career in dentistry. The Board of Studies Dentistry also approved a new curriculum that will be implemented starting from the academic session 2024-25.

During the meeting, Vice Chancellor of UHS, Professor Ahsan Waheed Rathore, emphasized that the new curriculum will place a strong focus on community dentistry and clinical skills. This is a crucial step, as it aims to equip students with the necessary skills to address the dental health needs of the community effectively. Furthermore, all subject specialists and medical education experts associated with dental colleges will undergo training to ensure they are well-prepared to deliver this updated curriculum.

Professor Rathore also highlighted that life-saving skills will be integrated into the new curriculum. This addition is particularly important, as it prepares dental professionals to handle emergencies and provide comprehensive care to their patients. By incorporating these essential skills, the program aims to produce well-rounded dentists who are not only proficient in dental procedures but also capable of responding to critical situations.

The extension of the BDS program to five years, along with the introduction of a new curriculum, marks a progressive step in dental education in Punjab. This initiative not only aims to enhance the quality of education but also ensures that future dentists are better equipped to serve their communities. As the field of dentistry continues to evolve, such changes are vital in preparing students to meet the challenges of modern healthcare. The commitment to improving dental education reflects a broader understanding of the importance of comprehensive training in producing skilled and compassionate healthcare professionals.