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Pakistani medical students abroad to get government support

By
NNPS Desk
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ISLAMABAD, Aug 22 (APP): The Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PM&DC) and the Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination have jointly decided to support Pakistani students studying medicine and dentistry abroad.

After a recent meeting, both bodies have come together to create a unified approach that will help these students make the most of their education while ensuring that Pakistan’s financial resources are effectively utilized.

Starting from the 2025-26 academic year, the PM&DC and the Ministry will implement a new set of guidelines designed to streamline the process of integrating foreign-trained professionals into Pakistan’s healthcare system.

These changes aim to help students avoid enrolling in institutions with lower academic standards and to ensure a smooth transition upon their return to Pakistan.

To help guide students, the PM&DC will work closely with Pakistani diplomatic missions to make sure foreign universities meet the necessary criteria.

For the 2024-25 academic year, Pakistani students seeking admission to international medical and dental schools will need to meet specific requirements.

They must hold a valid Multiple Entry Visa for the duration of their studies and have completed F.Sc Pre-Medical with at least 60% marks, or achieved a minimum of 550 in each SAT-II subject, or 50% in foreign MCAT/UCAT exams in Biology, Chemistry, and either Mathematics or Physics.

Additionally, they need to score atleast 50% in the MDCAT conducted in Pakistan, with these results valid for three years.

It’s important that the foreign institution is recognized by the PM&DC, especially for enrollments before the 2024-25 academic year.

The medical qualification should be from a WFME-accredited institution, and students must secure a PM&DC Student Registration Certificate before starting their studies.

They will also need to complete at least 6,200 hours of study over five years, maintaining an 80% attendance rate.

For those studying in non-English-speaking countries, six months of language training is required.

Moreover, passing the National Registration Examination (NRE) is essential for full PM&DC registration after qualification.

Students must also provide their residence and contact details in their host country before departure.

This policy is designed to help Pakistani students abroad achieve the highest standards in their education and ensure they are well-prepared to contribute positively to Pakistan’s healthcare system upon their return.

Islamabad Airport bid submission deadline extended to October 7

By
Ali Ali
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ISLAMABAD, Aug 22 (APP):The Steering Committee on the outsourcing of Islamabad Airport has extended the bid for outsourcing of the airport submission deadline to October 7, 2024.
The Steering Committee on Airport Outsourcing met on Thursday under the chairmanship of Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar.
The forum received a comprehensive briefing on the project’s progress from the International Finance Corporation.
In-depth discussions were held on the roles and responsibilities in the bidding process, a press release issued by the office of Deputy Prime Minister said.

Home Minister chairs meeting to review draft of Narcotics Act

By
Ali Ali
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KARACHI, Aug 22 (APP):A crucial meeting was held under the chairmanship of Sindh Law Minister Zia Ul Hassan Lanjar to review the draft of the Sindh Control of Narcotics Act 2024, presented by the Cabinet Sub-Committee. The final draft will be submitted to the Cabinet meeting for approval.
The meeting was attended by prosecutors, Advocate Generals, Secretaries of Law, Excise and Narcotics Control Sindh, and other officials, said a news release on Thursday.
Secretary Excise and Narcotics Control Sindh briefed the meeting on the proposals and importance of the Act.
Home Minister Zia Ul Hassan Lanjar emphasized that the formulation and enforcement of the Narcotics Control Act are essential, and its approval and enforcement will weaken the morale of the narcotics mafia.
He directed the meeting to finalize the draft of the Sindh Control of Narcotics Act 2024, remove deleted or repealed proposals, and submit additional recommendations and suggestions for review, approval, and ratification.
The Minister stated that as Law Minister, it is his duty to take steps to improve the formulation, approval, and enforcement of necessary laws.
He instructed the officials to expedite the process and submit the final draft for further action.

Punjab govt imposes harsher penalties on kite flying, making

By
Ali Ali
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LAHORE, Aug 22 (APP):The Punjab government has intensified its crackdown on kite flying, declaring kite making, flying, and transportation as non-bailable offences.
This decision comes with amendments to the Punjab Prohibition of Kite Flying Act 2007, which now imposes stricter penalties, says a press release issued here on Thursday.
According to the spokesperson of the Punjab Home Department, the new regulations also criminalize the production, use, and distribution of metallic string, wire, and sharp-coated string, which are used in kite flying.
As per the amendments, individuals caught flying kites will face 3 to 5 years in prison, a fine of Rs 2 million, or both. Failure to pay the fine could result in an additional year of imprisonment. Kite makers and transporters will face even harsher penalties, with 5 to 7 years in prison, a fine of Rs 5 million, or both. Failure to pay this fine could lead to an additional 2 years of imprisonment, added the spokesperson.
The amended law also outlines specific penalties for minors caught kite flying. On the first offence, they will receive a warning; on the second, a fine of Rs 50,000; and on the third, a fine of Rs 100,000. If the child is unable to pay, the fine will be collected from their parents or guardians. A fourth offence will result in punishment under the Juvenile Justice System Act 2018, which includes imprisonment.
The spokesperson for the Punjab Home Department stated that these measures are crucial to preventing this dangerous practice, which poses a serious threat to human lives. The increased penalties are expected to deter individuals from participating in this deadly activity, said the spokesperson. The amendments have been approved by the Provincial Cabinet and will now be presented before the Punjab Assembly for approval.

President  Zardari slams attack on police convoy

By
Ali Ali
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President Asif Ali Zardari
ISLAMABAD, Aug 22 (APP):President Asif Ali Zardari on Thursday strongly condemned the attack on a police convoy by riverine area dacoits in Rahim Yar Khan.
A press release from the President’s House stated that the president extended his condolences to the families of the police officers, who were martyred in the attack.
The president emphasized the need for strict action against criminals in the Kacha area and warned that attacks on personnel of police and law enforcement agencies would not be tolerated.
The president paid tribute to the martyred policemen and prayed for their elevated ranks. He also wished for the speedy recovery of those injured in the incident.

Jazz partners with MedIQ to revolutionize healthcare, insurance services in Pakistan

By
Ali Ali
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ISLAMABAD, Aug 22 (APP):Jazz, Pakistan’s leading digital operator, has partnered with MedIQ to transform healthcare and insurance services, making comprehensive, accessible, and affordable healthcare a reality for millions nationwide.
This strategic partnership will offer Jazz customers access to essential healthcare services, including 24/7 teleconsultations with medical professionals and e-pharmacy services for online prescription fulfilment and medication delivery said a news release.
MedIQ is a pioneer in digital health and insurance solutions.
The collaboration will also facilitate the home collection of lab samples and provide special discounts on ambulance services and home nursing care.
Jazz customers can access various insurance solutions through MedIQ, including comprehensive health coverage, accidental coverage, income protection, and life insurance.
Ali Fahd, Vice President of Marketing at Jazz, commented on the development, stating, “Jazz is revolutionizing the healthcare and insurance sectors by simplifying product offerings through AI/ML. This commitment is evident in our partnership with MedIQ, which offers affordable, high-quality medical and insurance services.
Together, we are empowering millions across Pakistan with the healthcare they deserve, right at their fingertips. This collaboration aligns seamlessly with Jazz’s recent shift to a service model, where our focus is on delivering impactful services that enrich the lives of our customers.”
Dr. Saira Siddique, CEO of MedIQ, also shared her thoughts on the partnership, saying, “Our collaboration with Jazz marks a significant milestone in our quest to make healthcare both accessible and affordable for everyone. By leveraging Jazz’s extensive reach, MedIQ is poised to bring its innovative digital healthcare and insurance solutions to an even broader audience, ensuring that people across Pakistan have timely access to the care they need, precisely when they need it.
This partnership is not just about expanding services; it’s about fundamentally changing the way healthcare is delivered, making it more inclusive, responsive, and aligned with the needs of our communities.”
This partnership underscores Jazz’s dedication to improving healthcare accessibility and affordability throughout Pakistan.
By integrating MedIQ’s digital health solutions with Jazz’s extensive reach, the collaboration aims to bridge gaps in the healthcare system and extend coverage to underserved communities, ensuring that even the most remote areas have access to quality healthcare services.

SC eccepts Govts’ appeal against Mubarak Sani case verdicts

By
Ali Ali
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Supreme Court
ISLAMABAD, Aug 22 (APP):The Supreme Court on Thursday accepted the review appeal of Federal Government and expunged certain portions from its verdicts of February 6 and July 24 in the Mubarak Sani case.
A three-member bench headed by Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faez Isa and comprising Justice Amin ud Din Khan and Justice Naeem Akhtar Afghan heard the Federation’s plea along with that of the Punjab Government’s review petition.
The court in its two-page short order authored by the CJP, observed that after hearing detailed arguments “it is accepting the appeal of the Federation and expunged certain portions while correcting its judgments dated July 24, 2024 and February 6, 2024.
It further said that the excluded certain portions could not be used as precedent in any verdict and instructed the trial court to decide the said case as per law without getting influenced by these certain portions.
The court said that the Federation had moved a miscellaneous application for correction in the judgment dated July 24, 2024.
The Parliament also passed a resolution unanimously for the purpose, it added. The order further said the Federation mentioned the names of worthy religious scholars and requested to review the decisions while keeping in view their opinion. The scholars were issued notices after the application was accepted for hearing, it added.
The order said that Mufti Muhammad Taqi Usmani and Syed Jawad Ali Naqvi appeared before the court through video links
from Turkiye and Lahore, respectively.
JUI-F’s head Maulana Fazl ur Rehman, Raees Darul Ifta Mufti, Darul Uloom Ghosia Bhera Mufti Sher Muhammad Khan, Chief Khateeb of KP, Maulana Muhmmad Tayyab Qureshi, President Mili Yakjehti Council Sahabzada Abulkhair Muhammad Zubair and Maulana Dr. Ataurehman from Jamia Islamia Tafhimul Quran Mardan appeared in person and gave arguments.

Islamabad police denies arrest of MNA Sher Afzal Marwat

By
Ali Ali
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ISLAMABAD, Aug 22 (APP):The Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) Police have officially denied reports claiming the arrest of Member of National Assembly (MNA) Sher Afzal Marwat.
In a statement released on Thursday, a spokesperson for the ICT Police refuted the circulating rumors and clarified that Marwat has not been detained. The denial comes in response to erroneous reports broadcasted by several private TV channels alleging the MNA’s arrest.
The spokesperson urged media and the public to disregard these inaccurate reports, confirming that Marwat remains free and has not been involved in any police action.

Efforts stepped up as dengue favouring weather approaches

By
Ali Ali
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Dengue
RAWALPINDI, Aug 22 (APP):As the dengue favouring weather approaches, the administration has stepped up its campaign to combat dengue. While there are only four dengue patients presently under treatment in the allied hospitals, the chances of dengue fever are increasing due to temperature fall and recent rains.
In view of the prevailing situation, the dengue control administration including the hospitals’ have been mobilized.
According to the latest report, the dengue situation is under control. The report issued by the District Prevention and Control department on Thursday, shows minor declined trajectory in dengue cases as one more patient has been discharged from the hospital after full recovery, leaving 4 still under treatment. The report shows the percentage ratio of female to male patients as 49 to 51.
On the other hand, the door-to-door anti-dengue campaign has been intensified. Water samples are being checked to assess the presence of dengue larvae.
The district administration has also tightened its grip on the issue by taking indiscriminate actions on the violation of dengue SOPs.  According to the details, on violation of Dengue SOPs, a number of restaurants and other big brands were imposed heavy fines. Additional Deputy Commissioner Zunira Aftab said that law is equal for all, providing a healthy environment to the people is the first priority. She stressed the citizens to obey self responsibility in combating dengue issues.
“How long the government will keep on cleaning people’s houses, so citizens must understand their responsibilities”, she said.
Zunaira further said that this disease can be avoided by taking preventive measures.
“Implementation of dengue SOPs can avoid heavy fines and sealing of buildings and other problems”, she added.

Senate body on IT briefed on PSEB, ECAC operations

By
Ali Ali
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0
Senate
ISLAMABAD, Aug 22 (APP):The Senate Standing Committee on Information Technology and Telecommunication convened on Thursday to review the operations and performance of the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB) and the Electronic Certification Accreditation Council (ECAC).
The meeting was chaired by Senator Palwasha Mohammad Zai Khan.
The committee was informed that the PSEB, initially established as a Private Software Export Board in 1995, operates under a seven-member Board of Directors. Presently, 26,000 IT companies are registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP).
Despite the global IT market’s staggering value of $5 trillion, Pakistan’s share remains less than 0.04%. This year, IT products accounted for 24% of the sector’s growth, matching last year’s growth rate.
Pakistan’s IT exports are distributed across several regions: 54% to US, 21% to Europe, 10% to Gulf countries, and 14% to the Asia Pacific region.
The country is home to 2,124 web design services companies, 452 network security firms, and 616 data storage and management companies.
There are 3,463 IT consulting firms, 870 social media consulting companies, 465 email marketing firms, 664 IT help desk companies, 940 cloud service providers, and 81 repair service companies operating in Pakistan.
Senator Palwasha Mohammad Zai Khan expressed concern over the opaque nature of the training programs, particularly questioning the HR-ICT Internship Program, which has trained 3,500 interns over six months with a monthly stipend of Rs. 20,000.
The committee demanded detailed information about the interns who completed the program, including their names, provinces, and the selection criteria. Questions were raised about the revenue generated by these programs and its utilization.
The committee directed the preparation of a comprehensive report on the training programs, including quality control measures and funding sources.
Senator Anusha Rehman criticized the Pakistan Software Export Board’s data, pointing out discrepancies in the reporting years and demanding complete data for previous years.
The committee also reviewed the Karachi IT Park project, which is estimated to cost $187 million and is being financed by Exim Bank. While the design is complete, there have been delays in the Islamabad IT Park project, which was expected to be completed by February 2025.
The delay has been attributed to issues with Korean funding and late land allocation by the Capital Development Authority (CDA).
The committee raised concerns about the hiring of the Secretary of the Ministry of IT and Telecommunication on a contractual basis, rather than from the Federal Service Pool.
Frequent changes in secretaries and the suitability of candidates from grades 21 and 22 were also discussed.
Senator Afnanullah criticized the lack of qualified officers and questioned the rationale behind hiring a contractual secretary.
The committee requested that the Secretary of the Establishment Division attend the next meeting with full details on this matter.
The committee was also briefed by Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) officials on the nationwide internet service disruptions caused by faults in submarine cables and the increasing payload through VPN traffic.
The committee questioned the ban on Twitter, which was reportedly implemented under the directive of the Ministry of Interior.
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