In a landmark development for Pakistan’s education sector, the Inter Board Coordination Commission (IBCC) has confirmed that the Intermediate Certificate is on track to receive international recognition, unlocking direct access to universities abroad—including institutions in the UK and other developed nations.
Dr. Ghulam Ali Mallah, Executive Director of IBCC, announced that consultations are underway with ECCTIS UK to facilitate acceptance of Pakistani qualifications for direct university admissions. Additionally, parallel efforts are ongoing with global education boards to standardize recognition frameworks and broaden acceptance of the Pakistani Intermediate Certificate.
“We aim to safeguard the integrity of Pakistani qualifications while streamlining international admissions for our students,” said Dr. Mallah.
Digital Reforms and Streamlined Processes
IBCC has implemented sweeping digital reforms to simplify and modernize the equivalence and attestation process. These include:
- Online verification systems for all 29 educational and technical boards across Pakistan.
- QR-code-based authentication on certificates for instant validation.
- Abolishment of sealed envelope requirements for verification.
- Real-time application tracking via SMS and email.
- Online verification of religious seminary credentials, soon to be launched.
Dr. Mallah also noted that in 2023, IBCC transitioned from a coordination body to a legally empowered regulatory authority through the IBCC Act, passed by Parliament. This act laid the foundation for enhanced governance, regulatory oversight, and a robust foreign qualification equivalence framework.
Administrative and Academic Overhaul
Key administrative reforms include:
- A performance evaluation system for staff.
- Improved customer facilitation services, including a dedicated helpline, social media support, and help desks.
- Centralized digital record-keeping of educational data for future accessibility.
On the academic front, IBCC has:
- Replaced rote-based assessment with a conceptual and practical learning model.
- Launched a model assessment framework for standardized board evaluations.
- Rolled out a new grading scheme to reduce pressure and reflect real performance.
- Rebranded “supplementary exams” as second annual examinations, allowing students more flexibility.
- Introduced teacher training, re-evaluation proposals, and standardized academic calendars across all boards.
A New Era for Pakistani Students
The recognition of the Intermediate Certificate on the global stage is a game-changer for Pakistani students, opening pathways to international education without the need for costly conversion exams or additional equivalence hurdles.
With these reforms, Pakistan takes a significant step toward aligning with global education standards, empowering students and restoring credibility to national qualifications.
