The Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC) in Bangladesh is a prestigious institution that plays a vital role in the country's healthcare sector. Established in 1998 to address the growing need for skilled medical professionals in the Bangladesh Armed Forces, AFMC has become a leading medical education and research center. This article provides a comprehensive overview of AFMC, covering its history, academic programs, admission requirements, facilities, and contributions to the healthcare sector.

History of AFMC

The Bangladesh Armed Forces recognized the need for a dedicated medical college to train skilled doctors for the military and the nation. This need arose because newly graduated doctors from existing medical colleges could not always fulfill the specific requirements of the Armed Forces. With this in mind, the Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC) was established on March 19, 1998, to provide high-quality medical education and produce well-disciplined, motivated, and dedicated medical professionals. The college also strives to inspire essential character qualities, a strong sense of righteousness, and a basic desire to serve humanity among its students. The first batch of 56 medical cadets was admitted on June 20, 19991. Initially affiliated with Dhaka University, AFMC later became affiliated with the Bangladesh University of Professionals (BUP).

The college is in Dhaka Cantonment, strategically positioned beside Airport Road, opposite Cantonment Railway Station and Radisson Blu Water Garden Hotel. This location provides a conducive learning environment while ensuring accessibility for students and faculty.

AFMC is managed by three executive bodies: an administrative wing and an academic wing comprising 20 departments. This structure ensures efficient management and focuses on administrative and academic excellence.

Programs Offered at AFMC

AFMC offers a comprehensive range of academic programs designed to meet the diverse needs of aspiring medical professionals.

Undergraduate Programs

The college's primary focus is undergraduate medical education, with the flagship program being the Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS). This five-year program follows a curriculum updated in 2012 and approved by BUP. The MBBS program is structured to provide students with a strong foundation in basic and clinical sciences, preparing them for a successful career in medicine.

The academic wing of AFMC comprises 20 departments, including:

• Anatomy
• Biochemistry
• Physiology
• Community Medicine
• Forensic Medicine
• Pharmacology
• Pathology
• Microbiology
• Medicine
• General Surgery
• Obstetrics & Gynecology
• Cardiology
• Neurology
• Gastroenterology
• Pulmonology
• Nephrology
• Psychiatry
• Dermatology and Venereology
• Pediatrics and Neonatology
• Otorhinolaryngology (Ear, Nose & Throat)
• Anesthesiology
• Ophthalmology
• Radiology
• Orthopedics

Postgraduate Programs

The Armed Forces Medical Institute (AFMI), affiliated with AFMC, offers postgraduate programs, including MPhil, Masters, and Diploma programs. These programs provide opportunities for medical professionals to specialize in various fields and enhance their knowledge and skills.

Admission Requirements

AFMC's rigorous selection process ensures that only the most qualified candidates are admitted to its programs.

Admission Requirements for Bangladeshi Citizens

The admission requirements for the MBBS program for Bangladeshi citizens include:

The selection process involves a written admission test covering Biology, Chemistry, Physics, English, and General Knowledge. The test assesses the candidates' aptitude and knowledge in relevant subjects. Shortlisted candidates are then called for an interview and medical examination. Final selection is based on merit, considering the candidates' performance in the written test, interview, and medical examination.

Admission Requirements for Foreign Students

AFMC also welcomes applications from foreign students. The admission requirements for foreign students include:

• Equivalence of Foreign Degree: Must have passed qualifying examination of A' level or equivalent examination. ...source
• Age limit: Maximum 22 years on July 1 of the admission year.
• Marital status: Unmarried.

Foreign students are also required to submit an equivalence certificate of 'O' and 'A' levels or equivalent examinations (for GPA) to be collected from the Directorate General of Medical Education, Mohakhali, Dhaka, Bangladesh, and must be declared eligible for admission.

Facilities Available at AFMC

AFMC provides state-of-the-art facilities to support its academic programs and research initiatives. The college has well-equipped laboratories, a comprehensive library, and modern classrooms. Students also have access to comfortable accommodation facilities within the campus. In addition to accommodation, students are provided with messing and laundry facilities.

AFMC is closely associated with several key institutions that contribute to its clinical training and research activities:

• Armed Forces Military Institute (AFMI): AFMI is the premier educational institute of the Army Medical Corps of Bangladesh Armed Forces.
• Armed Forces Institute of Pathology (AFIP): AFIP is a leading diagnostic institution in Bangladesh.
• Combined Military Hospital (CMH): CMH is a major healthcare facility that provides clinical training opportunities for AFMC students.
• Kurmitola General Hospital (KGH): KGH is another major hospital that supports AFMC's clinical training programs.

These institutions provide students with valuable practical experience and exposure to real-world healthcare scenarios.

International Collaborations and Research Initiatives

While specific details about international collaborations were not found in the available information, AFMC is actively involved in research and publications. The college has a dedicated Research & Publication section on its website, suggesting ongoing research activities. Further investigation into this section may reveal specific research initiatives and potential international collaborations.

Contribution to the Healthcare Sector

AFMC plays a crucial role in strengthening the healthcare sector in Bangladesh. The college produces highly skilled and dedicated medical professionals who serve in the Armed Forces and contribute to national healthcare services. AFMC helps improve the country's overall healthcare standards by providing quality medical education and training.

Conclusion

The Armed Forces Medical College in Bangladesh is a testament to the nation's commitment to excellence in medical education and research. By establishing AFMC, Bangladesh has addressed a critical need for skilled medical professionals within its Armed Forces while contributing to the country's broader healthcare landscape. The college's comprehensive academic programs, rigorous admission standards, and modern facilities attract talented individuals who aspire to become skilled medical professionals. AFMC's unique contribution lies in its ability to produce highly qualified doctors who are equipped with the medical knowledge and skills and imbued with the discipline and dedication required to serve the military and the nation. As AFMC continues to evolve and expand its programs, it holds the potential to become a regional leader in medical education and research, further solidifying its role in shaping the future of healthcare in Bangladesh and beyond.