Advises medical and dental schools to hire counselors to provide mental and physical health support
ISLAMABAD:
The Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) on Thursday took cognizance of the death of a final year medical student of Fatima Jinnah Medical University, Lahore, on the university premises and sought a report within seven days.
Young Fareeha, identified as a final year MBBS student, fell from the third floor of a college hostel, with official sources claiming that the student had been suffering from depression for some time.
Following the incident, given the seriousness of the matter and its impact on the student community, PMDC requested that the college share a factual account of the event so that it could remain informed and, if necessary, provide any appropriate support or guidance.
Read: Investigation opened into the death of a student
The PMDC urged the college to share relevant details within seven days, including the date, time and brief circumstances of the incident, as per the institution’s records; details of any commission of inquiry or fact-finding established, including its composition and terms of reference; the initial findings and/or anticipated timetable for completion of the committee’s report; steps already taken or planned to strengthen mental health support and counseling services for students; and security measures in the hostel following this unfortunate event.
In its letter to the university’s principal, the board expressed concern that medical and dental students represent the brightest and most valuable segment of the nation’s future health care workforce. Incidents of this nature are deeply alarming and highlight the urgent need to strengthen student support systems in medical and dental institutions.
The PMDC said it is focused on protecting and safeguarding the physical and mental well-being of students and ensuring that educational environments remain supportive, safe and suitable for their needs.
He also expressed his sincere condolences and sympathy to the bereaved family, praying for strength and patience during this difficult time.
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The council advised all medical and dental colleges to hire qualified counselors/psychologists to provide timely counseling and mental and physical health support to students in distress, establish effective student support mechanisms, including confidential counseling services, and maintain vigilant monitoring of student well-being, with special attention to signs of psychological stress, anxiety, depression and burnout.
He also reiterated that proactive mental health support and timely counseling could play a vital role in preventing such incidents and protecting the lives and futures of students.
The PMDC said it would continue to collaborate with relevant institutions to ensure that appropriate measures are implemented to support the well-being of students and prevent the recurrence of such tragedies.
