The Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan has instructed all public and private universities nationwide to introduce a mandatory three-credit course on Artificial Intelligence (AI) in all undergraduate and postgraduate degree programs starting from the Fall 2026 session.

According to an official letter sent to university heads, HEC’s Executive Director highlighted the growing role of AI in education, healthcare, economy, governance, and various other sectors globally. The letter emphasized that AI education is no longer optional but a critical necessity for students to develop practical understanding and skills aligned with international standards.

The course aims to provide students with digital literacy, ethical responsibility, data privacy knowledge, transparency, and awareness of AI’s societal impact. Universities are allowed flexibility in offering the course as an elective, interdisciplinary subject, or a supporting module within existing programs.

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The curriculum must cover AI fundamentals, practical applications across disciplines, ethical considerations, fairness, and accountability. However, universities may tailor the content to suit the nature of their specific programs. HEC stressed that the initiative will ensure students are prepared for a technology-driven future while meeting global competence benchmarks.

This decision aligns with the rapid changes in the global educational and technological landscape, where AI increasingly shapes research, innovation, and professional opportunities. Universities across Pakistan are now expected to integrate AI-focused learning into their degree programs to equip graduates with future-ready skills.