Key points
- AI elective introduced for higher classes
- Curriculum focuses on future digital skills
- Federal board to include AI exams
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is set to take a major step toward digital education as Artificial Intelligence (AI) will be formally introduced as a subject in schools and colleges across Islamabad from the next academic session, under a new curriculum finalised by the National Curriculum Council to equip students with future-ready digital skills.
According to the National Curriculum Council (NCC), students from classes six to eight will be given the option to study either computer science or AI. From classes nine to twelve, AI will be offered as an elective subject. For younger students, from nursery to class five, AI will be taught as a non-credit subject, with no examinations.
The Ministry of Education said the move reflects a strategic effort to prepare students for a rapidly evolving digital landscape. Under the direction of Secretary of Education Nadeem Mahbub, the NCC finalised the AI and Robotics curriculum for grades one to twelve in consultation with education experts and provincial authorities.
Computational thinking
The curriculum is designed to develop skills in computational thinking, automation, intelligent systems, robotics design, and the ethical use of technology. Officials said the framework follows a progressive, application-based learning model aligned with national priorities and international best practices.
Dr Tabassum Naz, director of NCC, said the policy addresses the growing importance of emerging technologies and provides students with greater academic choice. While education remains a devolved subject, ministry officials expressed confidence that provinces would adopt the curriculum, as they were involved in its development.
The Federal Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education is also expected to include AI in its examinations.
