PESHAWAR
Doctors at Khyber Teaching Hospital on Wednesday expressed serious concerns after the closure of a library used by young and trainee doctors for academic study and professional preparation.
According to the protesting doctors, the library was the only dedicated space where they could study after duty hours for postgraduate examinations and career development. They alleged that the library was first locked without prior notice, prompting doctors to break the lock in protest to regain access to the facility.
The doctors further claimed that following the incident, essential facilities including lights, washrooms and even a water cooler were removed from the library area, making it impossible for them to continue their studies there.
Young doctors criticized the decision, stating that public libraries around the world are established to promote education and support students and professionals, whereas in this case, a vital academic facility was being shut down.
They demanded the immediate restoration of the library and the provision of a proper study environment for doctors preparing for examinations and professional training. Meanwhile, the hospital administration clarified that the library space on the fifth floor had been vacated due to the launch of a renal transplant project at the hospital.
According to the administration, the library will be temporarily shifted to a designated area in the doctors’ hostel, while approval for a new and improved library is already under process.
Hospital officials maintained that the library facility was not being permanently discontinued but relocated to ensure that doctors’ educational activities continue uninterrupted. However, the protesting doctors insisted that the temporary closure should end until the new location is fully equipped with all basic facilities.
