PMDC calls for enhanced counseling services after FJMU student’s alleged suicide

2026-02-20 - 07:43

ISLAMABAD – The Pakistan Medical and Dental Council has sought a comprehensive report from Fatima Jinnah Medical University (FJMU) following the alleged suicide of a medical student at the institution’s hostel in Lahore. In an official letter addressed to the university’s principal, the PMDC registrar termed the matter serious and directed the administration to furnish a detailed account within seven days. The council has requested information regarding the date, time and recorded circumstances of the incident, along with details of any investigative or fact-finding committee constituted in response. The regulatory body also asked the university to share the composition and mandate of any inquiry committee, preliminary observations if available, and the expected timeline for completion of its findings. Furthermore, the PMDC has sought clarification on steps taken to strengthen student counselling and mental health services, as well as measures introduced to improve safety arrangements in the hostel. The development comes against the backdrop of recent suicide-related incidents reported at a private university in Lahore, which have intensified discussions about mental health support within higher education institutions. The PMDC advised medical and dental colleges across the country to engage qualified mental health professionals, including counsellors and psychologists, to ensure students facing emotional or psychological distress receive timely assistance. It also recommended establishing confidential counselling frameworks and closely tracking student wellbeing, particularly indicators of stress, anxiety, depression and burnout. Highlighting the importance of medical and dental students as future healthcare professionals, the council expressed concern over such incidents and stressed the need for comprehensive support systems within academic institutions. The incident occurred earlier this week when a 22-year-old female student, originally from Azad Jammu and Kashmir and residing in the university’s government hostel, reportedly fell from the fourth floor of the building. Authorities are treating the case as an apparent suicide. The council underscored that proactive mental health strategies and early counselling interventions are essential to preventing similar tragedies and safeguarding students’ futures. Suicide of MBBS Student: FJMU suspends classes, postpones exams