Faculty and Student Perceptions of Artificial Intelligence in Medical Education at a Public Sector University in Pakistan: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Background: Artificial Intelligence (AI), with its range of applications and ease of use, is transforming medicine. AI usage is increasing exponentially in a resource-limited country like Pakistan; however, application in medical education is evolving and needs to be understood. Little work has been done on perceptions among faculty and students to understand their understanding and readiness to use AI, while keeping in mind the ethical issues it may raise. Objective: To explore perceptions of faculty and students regarding integration of AI into undergraduate medical education, potential challenges and ethical considerations in adoption of AI, at a public sector university in Pakistan. Methods: Exploratory descriptive qualitative study at Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, from October 2025 to March 2026, including faculty in-depth interviews (IDI) and focus group discussions (FGD) with MBBS students till data saturation was achieved. Audio recording and transcription were done using an artificial intelligence tool. Data were thematically analyzed using the Braun and Clarke framework. Results: A total of 10 IDIs and 5 FGDs were conducted. IDIs included 10 faculty members: 6 (60%) females and 4 (40%) males, aged 38-55 years. FGDs included 40 students (males: 15, females: 25), with 7-8 participants per FGD, aged 20-25 years. Six key themes were derived: Modernization in Education, Curriculum Integration, Clinical Research and Practice, Ethics and Professional Responsibility, Readiness of the Institute, Strategic Integration, and Governance Issues. Conclusion: Faculty and students see AI as a supportive tool that increases access to healthcare and information and reduces errors. Important concerns raised included confidentiality, privacy, and fear of AI replacing humans in the medical sector.