The Higher Education Commission Pakistan (HEC) has introduced a National Skill Competency Test aimed at aligning university education with global IT industry demands.
The initiative has been launched under the Prime Minister’s directives in collaboration with the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication Pakistan, Pakistan Software Export Board, and P@SHA.
Who Can Take the Test?
The test is open to students in the 7th and 8th semesters of programs such as:
- Computer Science
- Software Engineering
- Artificial Intelligence
- Data Science
Participation is free of cost.
Benefits for High Performers
Students who perform well will receive a joint certificate from HEC, PSEB, and P@SHA. They will also be included in a national talent pool accessible to employers locally and internationally.
Additional benefits include:
- One academic credit
- Priority access to internships and apprenticeships
- Opportunities for international certifications
- University Participation Mandatory
HEC has directed universities to ensure maximum participation, as student performance will be used for national institutional benchmarking. Universities will also be ranked based on results.
Institutions that fail to register students or appoint focal persons by February 6, 2026, may face performance ranking consequences.
Focus on Industry Readiness
Officials say the goal is to bridge the gap between academic learning and practical industry skills, helping IT graduates become job-ready.
