PGME Fellowship Programme

The Fellowship programmes of Aga Khan University (AKU) build on the strengths of the residency programmes. AKU recognised the need for trained sub-specialists in the country and undertook to develop educational programmes so that this need could be fulfilled. In
many cases these programmes are the only training programmes of their kind in the
country – providing training to the highest level in each sub-specialty.

History and Accreditation

The first fellowship programme was started in 1996. Subsequently other programmes
were added. In total there are now 174 programmes. Each programme is recognised by the
College of Physicians and Surgeons of Pakistan (CPSP). However for some sub-specialties the College has not yet developed a formal structure. Hence it cannot provide accreditation
for these. However the need for such specialists is there. Therefore the fellowship programmes have been put in place.

Foundations of the Fellowship Programmes

Fellowship programmes build on the strengths of the residency programmes. These aim
to provide focused and in-depth training in a sub-specialty.

The major difference from the residency programmes is the depth and extent of training
provided in a field recognised internationally as a sub-specialty. A graduate of a
fellowship programme has a thorough grounding in the theoretical basis the subspecialty
as well as the requisite knowledge and skill to undertake independent practice as a
specialist. Indeed many of the graduates of these programmes are doing just that across
the country.

Structure of the Fellowship Programmes

In general, the fellowship programmes provide training using rigorous standards similar
to those used in the residency programmes. In view of the seniority and experience of the
fellows their responsibilities, work and duties reflect this and capitalise on their expertise.
Many programmes emphasise research as well.

Entry Requirements

The basic criterion for entry into any fellowship programme is the completion of a full
residency training programme in the parent specialty. Most fellowship programmes
require that the entrant hold the fellowship of the CPSP in the parent specialty.

Evaluation and Assessment

This follows recognised formats developed within the University and in the case of a
programme recognised by the CPSP, ensures that the standards methods required by the
College are followed.

Fellows take on greater responsibilities than residents, contribute to the teaching of
medical students and residents and perform many more procedures independently under
the supervision of the consultants.

Graduation

Following the rigorous programme of training, fellows graduate on achieving the laid
down requisite standard of each sub-specialty. The fellowship certificate is awarded
during the PGME graduation ceremony.

Salary structure

The salary structure of fellows is as follows :

• PGY I        Rs.15K
• PGY II       Rs.17K
• PGY III      Rs.19K
• PGY IV      Rs. 22.5K
• PGY V       Rs.28K
• PGY VI      Rs.34K
• PGY VII     Rs.41K
• PGY VIII    Rs.48K