STATE OF DENTAL EDUCATION IN HIGHER EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS OF THE KYRGYZ REPUBLIC

Abstract

This paper examines the current state of dental education in Kyrgyzstan and proposes potential ways to improve it at both the undergraduate and postgraduate levels. According to recommendations from experts at the World Health Organization, higher education institutions must update their curricula and adapt the educational process to the needs of healthcare. In medical universities in Kyrgyzstan, significant attention is given to the study of general medicine, which occupies up to 65% of the study time. This reduces students' opportunities to fully acquire specific knowledge and practical skills in the field of dentistry. Dental students should dedicate 60% of their time to studying the narrowly specialized aspects of their profession in order to be prepared for real practice and to effectively treat patients. A comprehensive approach to updating educational programs is necessary, which includes creating a balanced education that integrates fundamental medical knowledge with in-depth study of dentistry. Each subject should include at least a three-week practical component, and state examinations should be conducted in the form of an oral ticket system. The number of students in a group should not exceed 10, which will help produce more competent and confident dentists.