Islamabad Issues Notification for Immediate Implementation
Islamabad — The Federal Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education (FBISE) has officially issued a notification announcing the immediate implementation of a new curriculum for matriculation and intermediate students across Pakistan. The notification confirms that the previous curriculum has been completely replaced with the Comprehensive Curriculum 2024, which will now be applied uniformly in all institutions affiliated with the Federal Board.
According to the notification, all schools and colleges under the board’s jurisdiction must download the new syllabus from the official Federal Board website and begin implementation without delay. This directive applies to both public and private institutions affiliated with the FBISE across the country.
A Step Toward Educational Modernization
The FBISE stated that the new curriculum has been designed in line with contemporary academic, scientific, and technological developments. The primary goal, it said, is to enhance students’ intellectual, analytical, and creative skills while preparing them for a rapidly evolving global environment.
Officials explained that the new syllabus incorporates updates to better equip students with critical thinking abilities, problem-solving techniques, and digital literacy — areas often cited as weaknesses in Pakistan’s traditional education system.
While full details of the curriculum have not yet been made public, the board confirmed that the material is available exclusively on its website for institutions and teachers to download and review.
Key Areas of Change Expected
Although the official breakdown of subjects is yet to be released, education experts expect significant updates in science, mathematics, computer science, and social studies. Language and literature syllabi are also anticipated to include more inclusive and globally relevant content.
For instance, the computer science curriculum may now include modules on programming fundamentals, digital ethics, and emerging technologies. Similarly, the social sciences segment could feature contemporary global issues such as climate change, sustainable development, and civic responsibility.
These reforms reflect the government’s broader objective of bringing Pakistan’s education system closer to international standards. According to UNESCO, Pakistan has one of the youngest populations in the world, with more than 60% under the age of 25 — making curriculum modernization crucial for future competitiveness.
Implementation Challenges Ahead
Despite the reform’s significance, education analysts warn that its implementation may face initial hurdles. Many schools, especially in rural or underfunded areas, struggle with limited resources, outdated infrastructure, and a shortage of trained teachers.
Teachers may require additional training sessions to adapt to new content and teaching methodologies. Moreover, schools without reliable internet access could find it difficult to download and disseminate the new materials promptly.
A senior educationist in Islamabad, speaking on condition of anonymity, said that while the reform was long overdue, the transition must be supported with teacher training, digital tools, and equitable access to resources. Otherwise, the reform risks deepening the divide between urban and rural education systems.
Government’s Broader Educational Vision
The new curriculum aligns with Pakistan’s broader National Education Policy, which seeks to modernize schooling, promote STEM education, and encourage creativity over rote learning.
Over the past decade, Pakistan’s education sector has undergone several policy shifts aimed at improving literacy and aligning national education with the demands of the global job market. According to World Bank data, Pakistan spends roughly 2% of its GDP on education — one of the lowest in South Asia — which poses challenges for the successful rollout of such comprehensive reforms.
Conclusion: A Promising Yet Demanding Reform
The introduction of the Comprehensive Curriculum 2024 represents a bold and necessary step toward improving the quality of education in Pakistan. It signals a shift from traditional rote learning toward skill-based and analytical education models.
However, the success of this reform will depend largely on consistent implementation, teacher preparedness, and government support for under-resourced schools. If effectively managed, the reform could mark a turning point in Pakistan’s efforts to modernize its education system and prepare students for a knowledge-driven future.
