In a groundbreaking move to future-proof Pakistan’s education system and workforce, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed the immediate integration of Information Technology (IT) as a mandatory subject from Grade 6 in schools nationwide.
The directive, issued during a high-level review meeting, marks a pivotal shift in national policy towards early tech education in Pakistan.
Speaking at the meeting, PM Shehbaz emphasized, “The inclusion of IT in school curricula is vital to preparing our future generations for the demands of the digital economy.”
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Why This Matters
The Prime Minister’s vision reflects growing recognition that digital literacy in Pakistan must start young. By embedding computer science in schools, the government aims to:
- Bridge the digital divide
- Prepare students for jobs in tech and innovation
- Align education with international STEM standards
- Boost IT exports and economic growth
Also Read: Ahsan Iqbal Urges Urgent Education & Healthcare Reforms to Secure Pakistan’s Future
What’s Being Implemented?
Here’s a snapshot of the multi-pronged strategy being rolled out:
- IT Subjects from Grade 6: National curriculum revision underway for standardized IT training across schools
- School Broadband Connectivity Project: High-speed internet being installed in Islamabad’s schools
- Training Programs:
- 49,800 individuals received high-end IT training (FY 2024–2025)
- 600,000+ citizens benefitted from general IT courses
- 49,800 individuals received high-end IT training (FY 2024–2025)
- Huawei Partnerships:
- Establishing training centers at IIUI, NUST, and COMSATS
- Offering certifications in AI, Cloud, Big Data, and Cybersecurity at top universities
- Establishing training centers at IIUI, NUST, and COMSATS
- National Lab Upgrades:
- 1,300 labs to be modernized
- 146,367 students to receive hands-on IT training
- 1,300 labs to be modernized
Empowering Future Coders
Early exposure to coding classes from Grade 6 will instill problem-solving and logical thinking in students. It’s more than just learning a language — it’s about shaping future software developers, cybersecurity experts, and data scientists.
Collaboration is Key
PM Shehbaz urged for inter-provincial cooperation to ensure consistent quality. He highlighted that unified efforts are crucial for implementing a national IT curriculum that truly transforms learning.
Moreover, the PM met with the ACCA delegation, reaffirming the government’s intent to align educational training with global professional standards.
Tech in Classrooms Across Pakistan
With these reforms, Pakistan takes a definitive step toward becoming a digital-first nation. From Grade 6 coding classes to international-standard training, the seeds planted today promise a digitally empowered generation tomorrow.
Also Read: Sindh Boards in Crisis: Matric Paper Leaked on WhatsApp Before Exam in Sindh
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