The Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan has announced a landmark educational reform aimed at equipping students with practical skills alongside academic knowledge. Under the Undergraduate Education Policy 2023, all public and private universities, as well as degree-awarding institutions, will now be required to ensure that undergraduate students complete professional internships and industry-relevant certifications as a mandatory part of their studies. This initiative seeks to bridge the gap between education and the job market, enabling students to secure better opportunities both nationally and internationally.
According to the official notification, every undergraduate degree program must now include a compulsory internship worth at least three credit hours. To facilitate this, universities have been instructed to establish partnerships with corporate organizations, SMEs (small and medium-sized enterprises), and government institutions. The aim is to provide students with meaningful, hands-on experience that will enhance their ability to apply theoretical knowledge in practical situations.
In addition, HEC has directed universities to incorporate industry-related, nationally and internationally recognized certifications into their curricula. These certifications will provide students with updated, market-driven skills in fields such as computing and IT, healthcare, construction, high-tech and digital economy, and financial services. The Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development has also compiled a list of high-demand skills, which has been made available on the HEC website.
The policy further clarifies that certain internationally accredited certifications may, in specific cases, be accepted as substitutes for credit courses—provided they align with the learning objectives of the degree program. For instance, in computer science and IT programs, international certifications equivalent to three credit hours can replace elective courses.
Education experts and industry representatives have welcomed HEC’s decision, describing it as a significant step toward aligning academic education with market needs. They believe this reform will produce a skilled generation capable of meeting both domestic and international challenges. Students and institutions seeking more information have been advised to visit the official HEC website at www.hec.gov.pk/site/scd.
