HEC declares mandatory AI course for all degree programmes at universities from Fall-2026

2026-02-19 - 06:13

KARACHI – The Higher Education Commission (HEC) has made it mandatory for all public and private universities across Pakistan to introduce a three-credit-hour course on Artificial Intelligence (AI) in undergraduate and postgraduate degree programs from the Fall 2026 academic session. The decision comes in response to the rapidly evolving global academic and technological landscape, where AI is playing a pivotal role in education, healthcare, economy, governance and other sectors. In a formal letter addressed to vice chancellors and heads of higher education institutions, the HEC Executive Director stated that AI education is no longer an optional addition but an essential requirement. He emphasized that students must be equipped with digital literacy and a practical understanding of ethical responsibility, data privacy, transparency, fairness, accountability and the broader social impact of AI. According to the directive, universities may offer the course as an elective, an interdisciplinary subject or as a supporting course within existing degree programs. However, it will be mandatory for students to complete three credit hours focused on AI. The curriculum must include fundamental AI concepts, applications across various disciplines, and ethical and governance considerations. Universities have also been allowed to customize the course content according to the nature of their academic programs. The HEC stated that the initiative aims to prepare Pakistani students to effectively participate in an AI-driven global environment and strengthen the country’s competitiveness in the international economy. HEC announces Law Graduate Assessment Test [Law-GAT] 2026 for aspiring advocates