THIS refers to the letter ‘PhDs: PMDC registration’ (March 13). I fully endorse the writer’s views. MBBS and BDS doctors are facing dilemma in having PhD degrees registered by the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC).

PhD is the highest form of scholarly degree in any field but in Pakistan PhD in clinical subjects is not accepted and registered by the PMDC. In basic science subjects, a PhD degree has to be acquired from a medical university otherwise it is not registered. This is myopic and illogical.

The system of higher education for medical doctors is creating obstacles in the way of scholarly activity in medical education. Doctors’ education in Pakistan is focused on a structured training to produce fellows and members of a college, not scholars.

Doctors should be permitted to pursue PhD degree in basic sciences, clinical sciences and medical education from Higher Education Commission-recognised universities and not just medical universities with the proviso that research is focused on relevant medical area.

The chief justice and the PMDC committee headed by Justice Shakirullah Jan are requested to look into this matter to enhance the scope of postgraduate education in Pakistan.

Dr T. N.

Islamabad

Published in Dawn, March 25th, 2018