ISLAMABAD: In just eight years, Rawalpindi Medical University (RMU) has transformed itself into one of Punjab’s most dynamic and progressive public-sector medical institutions, achieving milestones rarely associated with government-run universities.
Established in May 2017 along with Nishtar Medical University Multan and Faisalabad Medical University, RMU became part of the expanded network of seven public medical universities across Punjab, including four in Lahore.
A visit to RMU by this correspondent, along with a study of its systems, achievements and long-term vision, shows the university moving well ahead of its 15-year plan for infrastructure development, academic excellence and institutional reform. Remarkably, the university advanced without waiting for enhanced government funding, relying instead on self-generated resources mainly generous alumni donations. This financial model has enabled RMU to achieve what is seldom seen in public-sector entities - sustained innovation, rapid development and consistent delivery.
For anyone returning to RMU after several years, the transformation is striking from buildings and grounds to cleanliness and greenery all reflect an institution in excellent shape.
Much of RMU’s rise is credited to its current Vice Chancellor, Dr Muhammad Umar, whose leadership has been pivotal in reshaping the university. Under him, RMU has adopted international-standard curricula; introduced innovative assessment systems not only for doctors working in its teaching hospitals but also for academic staff and senior administrators including the Vice Chancellor himself; inculcated a culture of integrity, professionalism and accountability; and built a transparent, performance-based academic environment.
Colleagues say RMU’s progress “is as much a story of institutional planning as it is of Dr Umar’s commitment to modernising medical education.” Under his leadership, RMU upgraded its entire MBBS curriculum to meet World Federation for Medical Education (WFME) and PMDC standards, becoming the first public-sector medical university in Punjab to implement the revised curriculum across all five years.
RMU has also adopted the internationally recognised Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME), USA model for postgraduate training and introduced the RMU E-Residency Program - an indigenous, digital, copyright-protected system that monitors residency training standards. No other medical institution in Pakistan has developed such a model.
The university has built a homegrown research model suited to Pakistan’s needs, involving students, residents, faculty and visiting scholars. RMU publishes seven academic journals, including specialised editions on health, climate and nursing. All journals are recognised by PMDC and HEC, and the faculty journal is indexed on Scopus- a rare distinction for a young public-sector university.
The university has also launched 10 PhD programmes, seven master’s programmes, 12 diplomas and four certificate programmes, all within a short span of five years, making it one of the fastest-growing academic institutions in Punjab.
A robust faculty development programme was also shown, supported by a transparent KPI-based evaluation system that ensures merit-based promotions, professional growth and accountability. RMU is also the only medical university in Pakistan with a purpose-built Simulation Medical Education Lab worth Rs600 million. Its second landmark initiative - the 11-field Research Labs Complex - will be completed in 2026 and run by PhD-qualified faculty.
RMU has also adopted the most modern digital system of LMS and CMS besides starting two latest smart class rooms for teaching and training for students, which are again distinct to RMU in whole of Punjab. RMU also started Disease Data Centre which will be used for research.
Visitors entering RMU are greeted by extensive greenery. Dr Umar said the university now meets official green campus criteria, with a large solar power system, rainwater harvesting and a Miyawaki forest used as a research model.
RMU faculty provide clinical care across three major teaching hospitals, offering services in 25 specialties, significantly strengthening Rawalpindi’s healthcare delivery. The university’s international alumni network has donated millions of rupees to support research, development and infrastructure. The local alumni body, Rawalians, remains deeply engaged in university affairs and students welfare. RMU also runs a strong scholarship programme for financially challenged students, reflecting its commitment to inclusive education. Because of its phenomenal progress, RMU has been ranked among the top public-sector universities by both the Higher Education Commission (HEC) and Times Higher Education (THE), a rare achievement for a young public medical university. What is particularly impressive is that at least seven senior members of the university’s leadership, including Dr Umar, do not take any salary, perks, car or driver as part of a “payback mission” to serve the institution from which they graduated as young doctors.
