DIKIOHS launches mentoring program to support BDS students’ academic, professional growth
KARACHI: The Dr. Ishrat ul Ebad Khan Institute of Oral Health Sciences (DIKIOHS) has formally launched a structured mentoring program for undergraduate BDS students, marking an important step toward strengthening academic guidance, student counseling, and professional development within dental education.
The mentoring program was officially introduced during an orientation ceremony held at the institute, where faculty members and academic leaders highlighted the growing need for structured mentorship to support dental students throughout their academic journey.
Structured mentoring to strengthen student support
The program was presented by Dr. Sofia Malik, Associate Professor at DIKIOHS, who is serving as the mentor lead for the initiative. She outlined the aims, objectives, and systematic implementation framework of the mentoring program, emphasizing the importance of strong mentor–mentee relationships in addressing academic challenges, improving communication, and promoting reflective learning.
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Dr. Malik explained that the initiative is designed to create a supportive academic environment, enabling students to seek timely guidance on coursework, stress management, and professional decision-making. She noted that effective mentoring plays a critical role in bridging communication gaps between students and faculty while fostering confidence and self-directed learning among BDS students.
DUHS leadership underscores value of mentorship
The ceremony was honored by the presence of Prof. Dr. Jahan Ara Hasan, Pro Vice Chancellor of Dow University of Health Sciences (DUHS), who congratulated the DIKIOHS team on launching the program. She highlighted the relevance of mentoring systems practiced in leading western universities and referred to the concept of “shadow mentorship,” where students benefit from continuous observation, guidance, and professional role modeling.
Prof. Dr. Hasan emphasized that mentoring programs are increasingly recognized as essential components of modern medical and dental education, helping students navigate academic demands while preparing them for ethical and responsible professional practice.
Faculty leadership highlights career guidance, global perspectives
Prof. Dr. Anwar Ali, Principal of DIKIOHS, and Prof. Dr. Imtiaz Ahmed, Dean, Faculty of Dentistry, shared insights on how structured mentoring supports students in making informed career decisions, choosing postgraduate pathways, and developing long-term professional goals within dentistry.
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Adding an international perspective, Prof. Dr. Farhan Vakani, Director of the Dow Institute of Health Professions Education, highlighted the role of mentoring based on his global academic experience. He stressed that mentoring is not limited to academic performance alone but also plays a vital role in developing professionalism, communication skills, and ethical values among future dental practitioners.
Faculty training, future roadmap
The event concluded with the announcement of faculty development workshops planned for both mentors and mentees in the coming months. These training sessions aim to standardize mentoring practices, enhance counseling skills, and ensure consistent program delivery across the institute.
With the launch of this mentoring program, DIKIOHS reaffirms its commitment to nurturing competent, confident, and professionally grounded dental graduates, aligned with national and international standards of dental education.
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