Addressing Registration Challenges for Medical Students Returning from Abroad

The plight of students studying medicine abroad has become a pressing issue that requires swift resolution. Many Kerala students opt for foreign medical schools due to the scarcity of available seats locally. Prior to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, completing studies overseas was relatively smooth. However, the pandemic drastically altered the educational landscape, confining students to their rooms and disrupting traditional classroom learning. Despite efforts to transition to online learning, students encountered numerous obstacles, particularly regarding registration and the completion of missed classroom studies.

Students who endured more than two semesters of online learning faced additional challenges, including the need to pass the Qualifying Examination for Foreign Medical Students to obtain provisional registration. Those who completed their coursework remotely had to rely on their colleges to compensate for missed semesters. This procedural intricacy further complicates matters, as provisional registration is a prerequisite for applying for internships in Kerala. With limited time to secure internships, students are left grappling with bureaucratic hurdles, exacerbating their already arduous journey.

It is disheartening to witness authorities inadvertently exacerbating the difficulties faced by these students instead of offering meaningful support. Students pursue education abroad out of necessity, driven by the lack of opportunities domestically. The state government should empathize with these students, recognizing the adversity they have endured to complete their studies. It is concerning to hear that students returning from other states do not encounter similar registration challenges, highlighting the need for equitable treatment.

The COVID-19 era posed unprecedented challenges for students worldwide, particularly those in professional fields like medicine and engineering. Practical training is indispensable for such disciplines, necessitating a balance between ensuring educational standards and facilitating internships. The government must intervene to streamline registration procedures and alleviate the burdens faced by medical students returning from China. Even if only a minority is affected, it is incumbent upon the government to extend support to students navigating these bureaucratic hurdles. Just as the central government intervened to address confusion surrounding Indian students returning from Ukraine, the state government can play a pivotal role in resolving the registration difficulties faced by medical students from China. It is imperative to prioritize the welfare of students and provide them with the necessary assistance to navigate these challenging times.

Back to top button

Adblock Detected

Please consider supporting us by disabling your ad blocker