The project, launched under the Undergraduate Education Policy 2023, is aimed at filling the gap between theoretical education and the job market s expectations of actual skills. A public and private university, degree-awarding institutions directive focuses on the acquisition of hands-on experience and internationally recognized capabilities by students.

Under the new system, all undergraduate students are required to complete a minimum of three credit hours of internships under supervision. The universities have been nudged to build formal relationships with corporate companies, SMEs, and public sector institutions so that students can get workplace exposure related to their field of study. The advisory encourages employers to let students work from home or use online internship platforms in order to meet evolving industry standards.

In addition to internships, universities will have to incorporate industry-specific certifications in their curricula. These certifications, issued by established national and international organizations, are meant to equip students with employable skills. Priority areas are Computing and IT, Healthcare, Construction, High-Tech and Digital Economy, and Financial Services. A list of highly sought-after skills, prepared by the Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development, can be accessed on the HEC website.

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On the other hand, universities can also accept credit hours for recognized certifications if they match course outcomes and are from reliable sources. In Computer Science and IT courses, foreign certifications up to three credit hours can even replace elective courses.

By institutionalizing the interface between academia and industry, HEC hopes to produce a highly competent workforce that can address domestic as well as international challenges. The commission states this reform demonstrates Pakistan s dedication to making its graduates ready for a competitive globalized economy.