Unaddressed scandals like MDCAT paper leak may erode credibility of medical profession: SHC

The Sindh High Court has observed that when high-profile cases like the Medical and Dental College Admission Test (MDCAT) 2024 scandal remain unaddressed, it can significantly erode public trust in educational institutions and the credibility of the medical profession as a whole.

Issuing a detailed order in the MDCAT paper leakage case, a high court division bench Justice Salahuddin Panhwar and Justice Amjad Ali Sahito observed that when irregularities and malpractices are allowed to persist unchecked, it sends a message that these institutions lack accountability and rigorous oversight.

The SHC had earlier ordered retaking the MDCAT after the inquiry committee’s findings claiming that the entire MDCAT conducted by the Dow University was compromised at all stages. Exploring causes behind the MDCAT paper leak, the court observed that several key factors including financial incentives contribute to the leakage of MDCAT papers and a significant cause is the presence of a weak regulatory framework within educational institutions and examination boards. It observed that without stringent oversight, and with a conventional casual approach, it becomes easier for individuals to gain unauthorized access to examination materials.

The court observed that additionally, in some cases, there is inadequate coordination between the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) and the universities that administer the exam and this lack of consistency can result in lapses in security protocols, leading to vulnerabilities.

The court further said that future candidates, as well as the public, may begin to question the integrity of such institutions and doubt the qualifications of individuals who gain admission through flawed or compromised processes and this breach of public trust has far-reaching consequences.

The SHC said that a flawed MDCAT undermines the reputation and social standing of the medical profession, which in turn can impact the patient’s trust and confidence in their healthcare providers. It observed that a lack of faith in the admissions process and educational standards can deter talented individuals from pursuing these fields, thereby negatively impacting the quality of future medical practitioners.

Justifying judicial interference in the matter, the high court observed that courts, by holding these institutions accountable and addressing clear instances of irregularities, play a vital role in restoring and preserving public trust. “Their intervention is not an overreach, but a necessary action, constitutionally mandated to ensure fairness, uphold students' rights, and maintain the highest possible integrity of educational and professional standards,” the court observed in order.

It said that while judicial restraint is generally advisable in the administration of educational institutions, it cannot be upheld unconditionally and when presented with substantial evidence of systemic issues or malpractices, the courts have a responsibility to step in and provide the necessary oversight and remedies. “This ensures that the public can have confidence in the fairness and credibility of the educational system, which is crucial for maintaining the trust and social standing of the medical profession as a whole.”

The SHC observed that present proceedings helped to arrive at such a conclusion the integrity of the medical profession itself is at stake and if individuals enter medical colleges without earning their place, the overall quality of future healthcare professionals may decline.

“This could have far-reaching effects on public health and erode trust in the medical community,” the court observed. The court noted in the order that strengthening examination security is pivotal and essential and this could involve implementing advanced technological solutions, such as secure online testing environments with proctoring or using multiple versions of the test to make it difficult to share leaked questions widely.

It said transparency and accountability are also critical aspects and institutions should adopt a zero-tolerance policy for anyone caught in paper leakage schemes, ensuring strict consequences for such behaviour.

The court observed that the recent controversy surrounding the MDCAT 2024 has cast a cloud of doubt over the entire examination process as credible reports have emerged of paper leaks and administrative misconduct, which have severely undermined the integrity and credibility of this highly competitive examination.

It said courts have a constitutional responsibility to protect the citizens’ rights, including the right to equal opportunity and fair treatment in public processes, and when examination procedures are compromised, it not only diminishes the value of hardworking students’ efforts but also violates their right to a fair chance at success. “By intervening in such cases, courts reinforce the importance of merit and set a precedent that misconduct within educational testing bodies will not be tolerated under any stretch of imagination,” the court observed.