Maryam Nawaz Sharif Medical College in Mianwali: Approval and Current Status

Updated: October 31, 2026

The Punjab government has approved the establishment of the Maryam Nawaz Medical College and Teaching Hospital in Mianwali. The approval was announced after a meeting chaired by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif on September 26, 2026. (Radio Pakistan)

The approval confirms that the project is planned. It does not, by itself, confirm that the college has opened, that classes have begun, or that medical-college seats have received regulatory approval.

Plans for the existing DHQ Hospital site

In July, Punjab health officials visited the old District Headquarters (DHQ) Hospital in Mianwali to review whether its buildings could be used for the college. The Associated Press of Pakistan reported that the proposed plan was to use the old hospital’s main buildings for academic blocks, laboratories, and administration, and to convert the trauma centre into a student hostel. Officials also discussed repair work and an expected December start for classes. (Associated Press of Pakistan, July 15)

That December date was a reported expectation in July. I have not found a later official announcement confirming that classes have started or that the expected date remains in effect.

Recruitment and screening activity

The Specialized Healthcare and Medical Education Department advertised vacant positions for the proposed college through the National Testing Service. The application deadline shown on the notice was August 27, 2026. NTS also listed a screening test for September 12–13, 2026. These notices document recruitment activity; they do not establish that the college is open or accredited. (NTS vacancy notice, NTS screening-test list)

What is confirmed—and what is not

The sources cited here confirm the September approval, the July inspection and proposed use of hospital buildings, and recruitment and screening activity. They do not confirm the final number of student seats, the hospital’s bed capacity, its clinical departments, or a current opening date.

As checked on October 31, the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council’s published list of recognized public medical colleges did not show a Mianwali entry. Readers should check the council’s current listing and official admission notices before relying on claims about recognition or available seats. (PM&DC list of public medical colleges)

The project could expand access to medical education and healthcare in Mianwali if it proceeds as planned. Its actual opening, facilities, and services will depend on construction and renovation, staffing, and the required regulatory approvals. Saraikistan will update this report when an official source confirms a change in status.