KARACHI: Fatima Jinnah Dental College (FJDC) has successfully organized a two-day Research Camp 2026, providing first-year Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) students with hands-on training in scientific research and evidence-based inquiry as part of its commitment to strengthening undergraduate research capacity.
Held recently at the Auditorium of FJDC's Pre-clinical Campus, the interactive program was organized by the college's Research Cell for First-Year BDS Batch 34. The initiative aimed to introduce students with little or no previous research experience to the fundamentals of research methodology while nurturing critical thinking, innovation and scientific curiosity.
Students transformed research ideas into proposals within two days
One of the highlights of the camp was the remarkable progress made by participants, who advanced from learning basic research concepts to developing and presenting original research proposals within just 48 hours.
The immersive learning experience enabled students to understand study designs, formulate research questions and objectives, and appreciate the role of evidence-based research in modern dentistry.
Senior leadership underscores importance of research in dentistry
The inaugural session featured welcome addresses by Principal Professor Dr. Babur Ashraf and Vice Principal Dr. Sameer Qureshi, who emphasized that research plays a vital role in advancing dental education, improving patient care and promoting evidence-based clinical practice.
Students later attended introductory sessions on research methodology conducted by Professor Dr. Hasan Mehdi, Dr. Afreen Agha and Dr. Mehwish Ayaz, covering key topics including types of research, study designs, research objectives, methodology and formulation of research questions.
Interactive activities encouraged teamwork and critical thinking
To reinforce classroom learning, students participated in collaborative group activities facilitated by Dr. Mehwish Ayaz and Mr. M. Zubair Khan, where they explored different research study designs by creating visual concept maps and presenting their findings to peers.
The first day concluded with an interactive Kahoot! quiz, allowing participants to test their understanding of research concepts through friendly competition. Top performers were recognized with appreciation gifts.
Research Idea Pitch Competition showcases student innovation
On the second day, students refined their research ideas under the mentorship of the Research Cell before presenting structured PowerPoint proposals during the Research Idea Pitch Competition.
Eight student groups presented their proposals before an evaluation panel comprising CEO Professor Dr. Hussain Askary, Principal Professor Dr. Babur Ashraf, Vice Principal Dr. Sameer Qureshi, Academic Coordinator Dr. Sabiha Mirza, Head of the Department of Dental Materials Dr. Afreen Agha, and Director Academics Professor Dr. Gulrukh Askary.
The panel critically assessed each proposal by discussing its scientific rationale, methodology, feasibility and potential significance while encouraging students to defend their ideas through thoughtful discussion.
Despite having limited prior exposure to research, participants demonstrated confidence, scientific reasoning and a solid understanding of core research principles.
Outstanding research proposals receive awards
Following the evaluation, the three best research proposals received cash prizes, while winners of the Kahoot! competition were also recognized for their outstanding performance.
Certificates of Appreciation were presented to all participants in recognition of their enthusiasm, commitment and active engagement throughout the two-day program.
Quality of student research ideas praised
In his concluding remarks, Professor Dr. Hussain Askary, CEO of Fatima Jinnah Dental College, commended both the Research Cell and participating students for the successful execution of the camp.
He praised the originality and quality of the research proposals, noting that many demonstrated strong potential to be further developed into publishable scientific research projects.
Building future clinician-scientists
The college said the Research Camp marked an important milestone in strengthening undergraduate research at FJDC by promoting evidence-based dentistry, collaboration, innovation and critical thinking among future dental professionals.
By integrating research training early in the BDS curriculum, Fatima Jinnah Dental College aims to produce graduates who are not only clinically competent but also capable of contributing meaningful scientific evidence to improve oral healthcare in Pakistan.
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