Foreign-Trained Medical Graduates Fail Qualifying Exam In Nigeria

433 out of 836 foreign-trained medical graduates who undertook the qualifying examination organized by the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) have reportedly failed. The examination, consisting of a computer-based test, a picture-based test, and an objective structural clinical examination, took place at the Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital between November 22 and 23, 2023.

Conducted at four different centers in Kano State, namely BMG Institute of Information Technology, JAMB Professional Test Centre, Kano Cooperative CBT Centre, and Treztech, the results revealed a noteworthy disparity in performance, with a majority of candidates struggling, particularly in the computer-based test (CBT) segment.

Initial data indicated that 836 candidates with medical degrees from foreign universities were initially shortlisted for the examination in Abuja. However, only 403 candidates successfully passed the rigorous assessment. The outcome underscores the challenging nature of the examination, designed to evaluate candidates' proficiency in applying basic medical sciences and clinical skills within a healthcare setting.

The MDCN, as the regulatory body overseeing the practice of Medicine, Dentistry, and Alternative Medicine in Nigeria, plays a pivotal role in maintaining the integrity of the nation's healthcare system. The examination, conducted twice a year, serves as a critical benchmark for evaluating the competence of foreign-trained medical graduates seeking accreditation to practice in the country.

As the majority of candidates grapple with the outcome, the MDCN's commitment to upholding standards and ensuring the quality of healthcare practitioners in Nigeria remains at the forefront, underscoring the ongoing efforts to bolster the nation's healthcare infrastructure.

Majority of Foreign-Trained Medical Graduates Fail Qualifying Exam in Nigeria