The Aga Khan University (AKU) in Pakistan, has achieved a new milestone by securing approval as an official examination site for the MRCP(UK) Part 2 Clinical Examination (PACES). This prestigious assessment, conducted on behalf of the three Royal Colleges of Physicians in the UK, evaluates clinical skills essential for physicians worldwide.
The approval follows a rigorous four-day MRCP(UK) Pathfinder (mock) clinical examination conducted at AKU's Center for Innovation in Medical Education (CIME) in Karachi. Conducted under the leadership of Dr Muhammed Tariq, Professor and Vice Dean of AKU's Medical College, Pakistan, the mock tested AKU's state-of-the-art examination facilities, examiner expertise, and logistical capabilities. It provided a highly realistic and standardized environment, ensuring candidates experienced the level of assessment required to meet global medical standards.
“Hosting this exam at CIME was an absolute honour," said Dr Faisal Ismail, Regional Director, CIME Pakistan. “It's a huge step forward, reinforcing our commitment to top-tier healthcare education. We're excited to be part of this prestigious international assessment and look forward to more such collaborations."
Beyond securing site approval, 14 faculty members from the AKU Medical College, Pakistan, including Dr Muhammed Tariq and Dr Faisal Ismail have been certified by the Royal Colleges of Physicians, UK, as official MRCP(UK) PACES examiners.
The first official MRCP (UK) PACES exam is scheduled to be held in August 2025 at CIME, Karachi.
Dr Tariq, who spearheaded this initiative, expressed his gratitude to all stakeholders. “This success reflects AKU's commitment to healthcare education excellence. Becoming an official MRCP(UK) PACES exam site and having 14 faculty members on-board as international PACES examiners is a proud moment for AKU. We look forward to extending our venues and expertise to more international partners in the future!"
This achievement further cements CIME's position as a premier hub for clinical examinations, dedicated to maintaining and advancing high standards of healthcare training in Pakistan and East Africa.
