The Aga Khan University Approved as Official Site for MRCP(UK) PACES Examination
Karachi: The Aga Khan University (AKU) has achieved a major accomplishment by being officially recognized as an accredited examination center for the MRCP(UK) Part 2 Clinical Examination (PACES). This esteemed recognition, awarded by the Royal Colleges of Physicians (RCP) in the United Kingdom, further solidifies AKU’s position as a leading institution in medical education and evaluation in the region.
To obtain this accreditation, AKU’s Centre for Innovation in Medical Education (CIME) successfully organized a ‘Pathfinder’ mock PACES exam, which tested its advanced simulation facilities, examiner proficiency, and logistical efficiency. This assessment, conducted in collaboration with AKU’s Medical College, demonstrated that the University met the high international standards necessary for the exam.
“This is fantastic news for AKU and for the many young medical professionals in Pakistan,” said Dr. Faisal Ismail, Regional Director, CIME, South Asia. “Hosting the MRCP(UK) PACES exam at CIME highlights our capacity to carry out critical international evaluations and offers local candidates the opportunity to obtain globally recognized qualifications without leaving their home country.”
In line with this development, 14 faculty members from AKU’s Medical College have been certified by RCP, UK, as official MRCP(UK) PACES examiners, further validating the excellence of AKU’s faculty and boosting the University’s ability to conduct top-tier clinical assessments.
The first official PACES exam at AKU-CIME is scheduled for August 2025, offering Pakistani and regional candidates a cost-effective and convenient opportunity to take this vital exam without the need for international travel.
“This achievement reflects AKU’s commitment to excellence in medical education,” stated Dr. Muhammed Tariq, Professor and Vice Dean, Medical College, AKU. “Being recognized as an accredited PACES exam site and having a team of internationally certified examiners places us at the forefront of medical assessments in Pakistan. We are excited to expand our reach through global partnerships.”
With this significant milestone, AKU continues to strengthen its reputation as a premier institution for clinical examinations, setting new benchmarks for medical education and assessment in the region.