Sher-e-Bangla Medical College (SBMC) is one of Bangladesh’s oldest and most prestigious government medical institutions, located in Barishal. Established in 1968, the college is named after A. K. Fazlul Huq, popularly known as Sher-e-Bangla, a distinguished leader and social reformer. Since its inception, SBMC has played a vital role in shaping the nation’s healthcare system by producing thousands of skilled, compassionate, and competent doctors who serve both domestically and abroad.
The institution is affiliated with the University of Dhaka and recognized by the Bangladesh Medical and Dental Council (BMDC). Over the decades, it has earned a solid reputation for its quality teaching methods, research activities, and healthcare contributions through the Sher-e-Bangla Medical College Hospital — one of the largest tertiary care hospitals in southern Bangladesh.
The establishment of Sher-e-Bangla Medical College was a significant step toward decentralizing medical education in Bangladesh. Prior to its founding, students from southern regions had limited access to quality medical training. The college opened its doors in 1968 with a small batch of students, a modest faculty, and limited infrastructure.
Over time, SBMC expanded both academically and physically. From a single building structure, it evolved into a comprehensive medical campus featuring multiple academic blocks, laboratories, libraries, hostels, and hospital complexes. The college’s growth reflects Bangladesh’s commitment to making healthcare education accessible to all corners of the nation.
The institution’s name pays tribute to A. K. Fazlul Huq — a statesman whose contributions to education, social reform, and justice continue to inspire generations. His vision for equitable development and empowerment of the masses aligns perfectly with the mission of SBMC: to nurture healthcare professionals who serve humanity.
The primary program offered by Sher-e-Bangla Medical College is the Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS), a five-year degree followed by a one-year mandatory internship. The curriculum strictly adheres to the guidelines set by the Bangladesh Medical and Dental Council (BMDC), ensuring international relevance and high academic standards.
The MBBS program at SBMC focuses on building a strong foundation in medical science, clinical skills, and ethical values. Students undergo rigorous training in both pre-clinical and clinical disciplines through theoretical lectures, laboratory practices, ward rounds, and real-time patient interactions.
SBMC maintains an intensive evaluation system, including periodic written exams, oral assessments, practical tests, and clinical demonstrations. This multi-dimensional evaluation ensures that every student not only acquires academic knowledge but also develops the practical competence necessary for medical practice.
The college offers a range of postgraduate opportunities for doctors seeking specialization. Programs like MD (Doctor of Medicine), MS (Master of Surgery), and diplomas in various disciplines are available, enabling advanced medical learning and research opportunities.
Sher-e-Bangla Medical College boasts a team of highly qualified professors, associate professors, and lecturers who bring a wealth of experience to the classroom and clinic. Their dedication to nurturing future physicians is evident in the college’s consistently excellent academic performance and research output.
The primary program offered by Sher-e-Bangla Medical College is the Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS), a five-year degree followed by a one-year mandatory internship. The curriculum strictly adheres to the guidelines set by the Bangladesh Medical and Dental Council (BMDC), ensuring international relevance and high academic standards.
The MBBS program at SBMC focuses on building a strong foundation in medical science, clinical skills, and ethical values. Students undergo rigorous training in both pre-clinical and clinical disciplines through theoretical lectures, laboratory practices, ward rounds, and real-time patient interactions.
SBMC maintains an intensive evaluation system, including periodic written exams, oral assessments, practical tests, and clinical demonstrations. This multi-dimensional evaluation ensures that every student not only acquires academic knowledge but also develops the practical competence necessary for medical practice.
The college offers a range of postgraduate opportunities for doctors seeking specialization. Programs like MD (Doctor of Medicine), MS (Master of Surgery), and diplomas in various disciplines are available, enabling advanced medical learning and research opportunities.
Sher-e-Bangla Medical College boasts a team of highly qualified professors, associate professors, and lecturers who bring a wealth of experience to the classroom and clinic. Their dedication to nurturing future physicians is evident in the college’s consistently excellent academic performance and research output.
SBMC’s campus is a blend of historical significance and modern infrastructure. Spread across several acres in Barishal, the college provides students with an ideal environment for study, research, and community engagement.
The lecture halls are spacious, well-ventilated, and equipped with multimedia tools to facilitate interactive learning. Classrooms are designed to accommodate large batches without compromising comfort or accessibility.
SBMC houses well-equipped laboratories for anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, pathology, microbiology, and pharmacology. The institution also encourages research activities through specialized centers and partnerships with national health organizations.
The central library is a treasure trove for medical students, offering thousands of books, journals, and research papers. Additionally, a digital library provides access to global medical databases, enhancing academic and research excellence.
The college provides separate hostels for male and female students, each managed under strict administrative supervision. Hostels are furnished, secure, and offer essential amenities to ensure a comfortable residential experience.
Hostel facilities include dining areas, cafeterias, and recreation rooms. Students have access to sports grounds, gymnasiums, and cultural clubs to maintain a balanced lifestyle alongside their rigorous studies.
Attached to the college is the Sher-e-Bangla Medical College Hospital, a 1,000-bed teaching hospital that serves as both a practical training ground for students and a lifeline for patients across southern Bangladesh.
The hospital provides a wide range of medical and surgical services, including general medicine, obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics, orthopedics, cardiology, and more. It operates 24/7 with emergency, diagnostic, and intensive care facilities.
Beyond its urban healthcare delivery, the hospital extends its services to rural areas through mobile medical units and health camps. Students and interns actively participate in these initiatives, gaining real-world exposure while serving underprivileged communities.
Admission to Sher-e-Bangla Medical College is highly competitive. Bangladeshi students must meet the criteria set by the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), including a strong academic record in science subjects at the higher secondary level (HSC or equivalent).
Foreign applicants can apply through the Bangladesh Embassy in their respective countries. They must have completed 12 years of education with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology, achieving minimum GPA requirements in both SSC and HSC (or equivalent).
Application Submission – Candidates apply online via the DGHS portal or through official channels for international students.
Merit Evaluation – Admission is merit-based, determined by academic results and entrance exam performance.
Medical Fitness – Selected candidates undergo a medical examination before final enrollment.
Sher-e-Bangla Medical College, being a government institution, offers affordable education. Tuition fees are significantly lower compared to private colleges, making it accessible to a wider population. International students also benefit from reasonable fee structures compared to similar-quality institutions abroad.
Life at Sher-e-Bangla Medical College extends beyond academics. The institution promotes a vibrant student culture with regular events like cultural festivals, debates, sports tournaments, and medical exhibitions.
Various clubs, such as the SBMC Cultural Club, Debating Society, and Sports Association, encourage students to develop leadership and teamwork skills.
Students often participate in academic societies focused on research, medical innovation, and social health awareness, such as the Community Health Club and Blood Donors’ Association.
SBMC students actively take part in public health initiatives, vaccination drives, and disaster response efforts — reflecting the institution’s ethos of service and compassion.
Research is a key component of SBMC’s educational approach. Students are encouraged to engage in evidence-based learning and conduct projects under faculty supervision.
The college’s laboratories and collaboration with the hospital create opportunities for both clinical and laboratory-based studies.
SBMC publishes its own medical journal, featuring original research from faculty and students. The institution also collaborates with international universities and organizations to promote advanced medical research.
Sher-e-Bangla Medical College is recognized by major global medical councils, including:
Bangladesh Medical and Dental Council (BMDC)
World Health Organization (WHO)
World Directory of Medical Schools (WDOMS)
This recognition ensures that graduates are eligible to take international licensing exams such as the USMLE (USA), PLAB (UK), and AMC (Australia).
SBMC graduates are employed across the globe, serving in prestigious hospitals and research institutions. Their success reflects the college’s strong academic foundation and ethical training.
Being a public institution, SBMC offers a world-class medical education at minimal expenses compared to private or foreign universities.
The dedicated and experienced teaching staff ensures that students receive personalized attention and mentorship throughout their studies.
Students gain hands-on experience from the very beginning through hospital postings, clinical rotations, and rural health outreach programs.
Located in the scenic and peaceful city of Barishal, the campus provides a safe, conducive environment for both local and international students.
SBMC has been instrumental in reducing the doctor-patient ratio in Bangladesh by producing a large number of medical professionals each year.
The institution regularly sends teams of students and doctors to rural and remote areas, contributing to preventive and curative healthcare.
During national emergencies, such as natural disasters or pandemics, SBMC and its hospital have played crucial roles in providing emergency care and public health support.
The government continues to invest in upgrading the college infrastructure, adding new academic blocks, research centers, and digital facilities.
Plans are underway to implement e-learning platforms, simulation labs, and telemedicine facilities to make education and healthcare delivery more efficient.
SBMC aims to expand its partnerships with international institutions to enhance student exchange programs, joint research, and faculty training initiatives.
Barishal, known as the “Venice of the East,” is a beautiful riverine city offering students a serene environment away from the congestion of larger cities.
The city’s friendly community, cultural richness, and affordable lifestyle make it an ideal location for academic pursuits.
Barishal is well-connected to Dhaka and other regions by road, air, and waterways, ensuring easy travel for students and visitors.
SBMC boasts an extensive alumni network across Bangladesh and abroad. Alumni regularly participate in college events, mentoring programs, and professional collaborations.
Many SBMC graduates hold leadership positions in healthcare administration, research, and public policy, contributing significantly to national development.
Sher-e-Bangla Medical College stands as a beacon of excellence in Bangladesh’s medical education landscape. With a legacy rooted in service, knowledge, and compassion, the institution continues to inspire and shape the next generation of medical professionals. Its combination of affordable education, experienced faculty, and advanced infrastructure makes it one of the most desirable destinations for aspiring doctors from Bangladesh and abroad.
Graduates of SBMC carry forward the vision of Sher-e-Bangla A. K. Fazlul Huq — to serve humanity with integrity, wisdom, and empathy. As it continues to evolve with modern advancements, the college remains steadfast in its mission: to heal, educate, and innovate for a healthier tomorrow.