Islamabad: The Virtual University of Pakistan has conducted a nationwide IT skills competency test for more than 40,000 students, as part of a national initiative to assess graduate readiness and align academic training with industry needs.
The National Skill Competency Test (NSCT), held on April 4 and 5, was organised on the directives of the Higher Education Commission (HEC) in collaboration with the Ministry of IT and Telecommunication, Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB) and Pakistan Software Houses Association (P@SHA).
A total of 40,784 students from 199 universities participated in the computer-based assessment, which was conducted across 112 cities at 165 test centres. The exam was held in four daily sessions, each lasting two hours.
Focus on employability and industry alignment
Officials said the standardised test aims to improve employability by evaluating IT graduates on a national scale and aligning their skills with market requirements.
The Virtual University deployed 592 invigilation staff to ensure smooth conduct and transparency, supported by real-time monitoring systems across all centres.
Visits by IT minister and HEC chairman
State Minister for IT and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja visited the central monitoring room in Islamabad, where she was briefed on the system used to oversee exam operations nationwide. She described the initiative as a step toward strengthening Pakistan’s digital workforce.
Separately, HEC Chairman Prof. Dr. Niaz Ahmad Akhtar visited the Virtual University’s Lahore regional office and control room. He was accompanied by senior university officials and received a briefing on the institution’s technological capacity to conduct large-scale assessments.
Also read: HEC to hold nationwide IT skills test on April 4–5 for over 40,000 students
Officials said the successful execution of the test highlights the university’s operational capability and its role in supporting technology-driven education initiatives.
The Virtual University reaffirmed its commitment to advancing digital education and contributing to national development through large-scale assessment and innovation.
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