PDA opposes merger of de'Mont College, advocates for university upgrade

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Dental Association (PDA) has strongly opposed the proposed merger of de'Montmorency College of Dentistry with King Edward Medical University (KEMU) or University of Health Sciences (UHS), Lahore. Instead, the PDA has proposed that the college retain its academic independence and be upgraded to de'Montmorency University of Oral Health Sciences to ensure continued excellence and legacy in dental education.

The PDA’s resolution clearly condemns the proposed merger, which would have merged the century-old institution into a larger university structure. According to the PDA, such a merger would compromise the autonomy of the college, which is an old and a highly respected entity in the field of dental education.

The PDA stresses that de'Montmorency College must maintain its affiliation with a university for academic purposes but must not lose its independent status. The association believes that the legacy and historical significance of the college are at risk if it is absorbed as a constituent college of a larger institution.

PDA’s proposal: Upgrading to de'Montmorency University of Oral Health Sciences

In lieu of the merger, the Pakistan Dental Association has recommended upgrading de'Montmorency College to the de'Montmorency University of Oral Health Sciences. This upgrade would not only preserve the college’s esteemed legacy but also propel the advancement of dental education and research, ensuring its continued leadership in the field.

The PDA firmly believes that this upgrade will ensure that the institution remains a leader in dental education, attracting both local and international talent.

Support from the Lahore dental community

The Lahore dental community has shown strong support for the PDA’s stance. Local dentists, faculty members, and students have voiced their concerns about the potential merger. The dental community has a deep-rooted connection to the college, and there is widespread agreement that its independence is crucial to preserving the standards of dental education in Pakistan.

Dental News further reached out to PDA Lahore Chapter President Dr. Tahir Mehmood and Prof. Dr. Ayyaz Ali Khan, an active member of Lahore’s dental community. Both leaders expressed their full support for the PDA Center’s stance on the merger and pledged to collaborate with local legislators to table a resolution in the provincial assembly for the upgrade of de'Montmorency College to the de'Montmorency University of Oral Health Sciences. This effort is seen as a crucial step in preserving the college’s autonomy and maintaining its esteemed reputation.

The future of dental education in Lahore

As the debate over the proposed merger heats up, the future of de'Montmorency College of Dentistry hangs in the balance. The PDA and the wider dental community are united in their determination to protect the college's legacy and autonomy. Their proposal to transform the institution into a dedicated university of oral health sciences underscores their commitment to ensuring the long-term growth and sustainability of dental education in Lahore and beyond. By pushing for provincial legislation, they are taking a pivotal step in securing the future of dental education in Pakistan, ensuring that the college continues to shape the next generation of dental professionals.