HEC to introduce mandatory AI course in all degree programs

ISLAMABAD (Dunya News) - The Higher Education Commission (HEC) has directed all public and private universities across Pakistan to introduce a mandatory three-credit-hour course on Artificial Intelligence (AI) in all undergraduate and postgraduate degree programs.

The decision has been taken in view of the rapidly evolving global educational and technological landscape, where AI is playing a key role in sectors such as education, healthcare, economy, and governance.

In a letter addressed to vice chancellors and heads of universities, the Executive Director of HEC stated that AI education is no longer an optional facility but a pressing necessity. He emphasized the importance of equipping students with digital literacy, ethical responsibility, data privacy awareness, transparency, and an understanding of AI’s social impact to help them meet international standards.

The letter clarified that universities may offer the course as an elective, an interdisciplinary subject, or as a supporting course within existing programs. The curriculum must include fundamental AI concepts, applications across various fields, ethical considerations, fairness, and accountability. Institutions have also been allowed to tailor the content according to the nature of their academic programs.

The directive states that the course will be implemented in all degree programs starting from the Fall 2026 academic session.