According to Oxford, these three subjects are now mandatory for students taking O-Level (IGCSE) exams in Pakistan.
The new syllabus focus on critical thinking, analytical skills, and better exam preparation.
They include Pakistan’s history, geography, Islamic teachings, traditions, and Urdu literature, while also connecting lessons to global issues and Pakistan’s role in the world.
According to Oxford, the new curriculum has been written in clear and simple language, making it easier for students to understand while ensuring academic depth.
Arshad Saeed Husain, Managing Director of Oxford University Press Pakistan, explained that the collaboration between OUP and AQA brings international expertise to local students, preparing them with future-ready skills.
Salma Adil, Director of Oxford Pakistan, said the new courses are designed to balance exam preparation with real-world understanding, helping students succeed both academically and globally.
Along with the new syllabus, Oxford has launched textbooks aligned to these subjects. The books are authored by:
- Nighat Gaya Bajwa (Islamiyat)
- Dr. Faizuddin Ahmed (Urdu)
- Nigel Smith (Pakistan Studies)
These authors presented the new content during the official launch.
This development marks a major milestone in O-Level education in Pakistan. For years, students studied Islamiyat, Pakistan Studies, and Urdu under outdated frameworks that often-lacked global connections.
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Oxford’s updated syllabus combines local relevance with international standards, aiming to give Pakistani students a stronger educational foundation.
The emphasis on critical thinking and analytical skills reflects a global shift in education, moving away from rote memorization.
By aligning content with Pakistan’s history, culture, and global role, students will gain a deeper understanding of both local identity and international relevance.
The introduction of locally authored textbooks ensures accessibility and contextual depth, while the collaboration with AQA guarantees global recognition.
This step could reshape the academic experience for Pakistani O-Level students, giving them a fairer chance to compete at an international level.
