The Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan is taking significant steps to reform university education in response to a notable decline in student admissions. Recognizing the growing disconnect between traditional academic programs and the evolving needs of the job market, HEC has introduced a new policy that mandates the integration of skill-based education across all public and private universities in the country. This policy shift is designed to make graduates more employable by emphasizing practical, industry-relevant skills alongside theoretical knowledge.
Under this revised framework, universities are required to incorporate industry-linked certifications into their curricula, particularly in high-demand fields such as computer science, information technology, healthcare, construction, high-tech manufacturing, the digital economy, and finance. By embedding these certifications, the HEC aims to ensure that students graduate with not only academic degrees but also the hands-on competencies sought by employers in today’s competitive job market.
Officials involved in the decision highlight that this move addresses the widening gap between the skills taught at universities and the expectations of employers, which has contributed to both rising graduate unemployment and a sharp decline in university enrolments. The policy reflects a broader recognition that Pakistan’s tertiary education system has struggled to adapt to labor market trends, resulting in graduates who are often underprepared for real-world challenges.
By fostering collaboration between academia and industry, the HEC’s new policy seeks to realign educational outcomes with economic demands, encouraging universities to move away from purely degree-centric programs towards a more holistic approach that prioritizes skill development. This initiative is expected to revitalize interest in higher education by making academic programs more relevant, thus reversing the trend of falling admissions and helping to bridge the skills gap in Pakistan’s workforce.
