KARACHI: Two second-year Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) students from the Dr Ishrat-ul-Ebad Khan Institute of Oral Health Sciences (DIKIOHS), Dow University of Health Sciences (DUHS) secured third position in the Scientific Poster Presentation competition at DentalInnovate 3.0, highlighting the growing role of artificial intelligence (AI) in dental education.
The achievement came during the two-day conference held on July 24–25, 2026, at the Expo Centre Karachi, where dental students and researchers from institutions across Sindh presented innovative scientific work and exchanged ideas on emerging trends in dentistry.
Yamina Rehman and Umme Fatima Ahmer, both second-year BDS students at DIKIOHS, received the award for their scientific poster titled "Beyond Traditional Learning: Exploring AI-Based Tools as Supportive Resources for Preclinical Dental Students."
Research focuses on AI as a learning aid for future dentists
The award-winning project explored how artificial intelligence-based educational tools can complement conventional teaching methods during the preclinical years of dental education.
As AI-powered learning platforms continue to reshape higher education worldwide, the students' research examined their potential to support preclinical dental students by enhancing learning experiences, improving access to educational resources and strengthening academic preparedness.
Rather than replacing traditional teaching, the study focused on AI as a supportive educational resource that can help students better understand complex concepts while encouraging self-directed learning.
The topic reflects the increasing global interest in integrating emerging technologies into healthcare education to prepare future professionals for an increasingly digital clinical environment.
Competition featured 86 scientific poster presentations
According to the organizers, DentalInnovate 3.0 brought together participants from dental institutions across Sindh, with 86 scientific poster presentations showcasing undergraduate research, innovation and scientific excellence.
Competing against students from several leading dental colleges, the DIKIOHS team secured a place among the event's top performers, demonstrating strong research capabilities and effective scientific communication.
The achievement underscores the growing participation of undergraduate dental students in research activities addressing contemporary challenges and technological advancements in dentistry.
Recognition for academic excellence
The success has been welcomed by the faculty and administration of DIKIOHS, who congratulated the students on their accomplishment and acknowledged their dedication, perseverance and commitment to research.
The institute also recognized the contribution of the students' mentors, whose guidance supported the development and presentation of the project.
The recognition reflects DIKIOHS's ongoing emphasis on strengthening research culture among undergraduate students and encouraging participation in scientific forums that promote innovation and evidence-based dentistry.
AI continues to shape dental education
Artificial intelligence is rapidly becoming an important area of interest in dental education worldwide.
From virtual simulation and adaptive learning platforms to diagnostic assistance and clinical decision support, AI technologies are increasingly being explored as tools to improve both dental training and patient care.
Research initiatives such as the DIKIOHS project demonstrate how Pakistani dental students are actively engaging with these emerging technologies while contributing to discussions on the future of dental education.
As dental schools continue integrating digital technologies into their curricula, student-led research on AI is expected to play an increasingly important role in shaping modern teaching methodologies and preparing graduates for evolving clinical practice.
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