EdTech offers hope amid crisis
EdTech is reshaping the future of education in Pakistan by using Artificial Intelligence (AI) and secure digital tools, leveraging cutting-edge technology to improve the Medical and Dental College Admission Test (MDCAT) preparation process, the digital platform is not only enhancing student performance and empowering learners but also demonstrating how digital solutions can tackle persistent challenges in educational testing in an economical way.
In the wake of the notorious MDCAT 2024 paper leak, where the integrity of the examination was severely compromised, startup PreMed.PK's approach to digitised learning and test preparation is emerging as a beacon of hope. The role of technology in addressing systemic issues in educational testing cannot be overstated, especially in a year when repeated leaks and irregularities marred the examination process.
In a rapidly evolving educational landscape, the digital platform PreMed.PK is transforming how medical entrance exams are approached in Pakistan. Their innovative system has not only improved preparation for the MDCAT but also shown how technology can drive change in an outdated and often flawed system.
Reflecting on the impact of the platform, PreMed.PK Co-Founder Dr Fahd Niaz Shaikh said, "Our mission is to democratise access to quality exam preparation. Technology is levelling the playing field, ensuring that every student, regardless of their location or background, has access to the best learning resources."
The MDCAT exam, essential for aspiring medical and dental students, is considered one of the most competitive and rigorous entrance tests in the country. In 2024, however, it became infamous due to widespread allegations of paper leaks and the subsequent emotional turmoil faced by thousands of students. Many questioned the integrity of the process, and the Sindh High Court's intervention and subsequent order for a retest underscored the urgent need for reforms to ensure fairness and transparency in the examination system.
Despite these setbacks, PreMed.PK Co-Founder Dr Hasnain Mankani advocated for a more comprehensive approach to student development. "We believe that education is not just about passing exams; it's about fostering lifelong learning. Our platform is designed to engage students in a way that goes beyond the classroom and prepares them for future success."
The digital platform's response to the crisis is a model of how edtech can serve as a force for good. Their system not only equips students with top-notch preparation tools but also serves as a learning hub that promotes critical thinking, problem-solving, and time managementskills crucial far beyond the scope of the MDCAT exam.
The startup, PreMed.PK, was launched in 2021 to help students make comprehensive preparations at lower fees compared to other centres. Around 200,000 students appear in the MDCAT each year, and PreMed.PK serves approximately 40,000 annually. Over the past four years, it has trained nearly 150,000 students. It also offers the Abdullah Khattak Scholarship to deserving students and recently introduced testing services for service providers, allowing them to conduct mock tests for MBBS and BDS candidates.
The platform's use of AI-powered tools, gamification, and personalised learning experiences has significantly helped students stay engaged and motivated throughout their preparation journeys.
The controversy surrounding MDCAT 2024 highlights broader issues facing Pakistan's education system. Rampant paper leaks and inefficient testing processes have eroded public trust. As an edtech leader, PreMed.PK envisions a future where technology not only revolutionises learning but also transforms the way exams are administered.
Shaikh noted, "The challenges faced by the MDCAT exam in 2024 have shown us that technology can play a crucial role in ensuring exam integrity. By using AI and secure digital tools, we can create a more transparent, fair, and efficient testing process."
Both founders believe the education system could benefit from a comprehensive overhaul in how exams are conducted. From digitising exam procedures to introducing biometric verification and randomised question banks, technology offers a wide range of solutions to combat cheating and irregularities. This forward-thinking approach could restore the credibility of exams like the MDCAT and ensure they remain a fair measure of merit.
Their journey at NIC Karachi, a leading startup incubator, was instrumental in shaping their vision. The entrepreneurial ecosystem at NIC Karachi provided mentorship and essential resources that helped transform their ideas into impactful solutions.
Commenting on the platform, NIC Karachi Project Director Syed Azfar Hussain said, "PreMed.PK is a stellar example of how the entrepreneurial ecosystem at NIC Karachi, managed under LMKT, helps startups scale and make a real difference in critical sectors like education. Fahd and Hasnain have leveraged the mentorship, resources, and networking opportunities at NIC Karachi to build this platform that is truly innovative and impactful."
He added that the success story of Hasnain and Fahd is a source of inspiration for the growing edtech community in Pakistan. With their innovative approach to medical test preparation, they are proving that technology is not just a tool but a transformative force that can address some of the most pressing challenges in education.
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