All public and private universities directed to implement two compulsory courses on Quranic understanding at undergraduate and postgraduate levels
ISLAMABAD, Oct 12 — The Higher Education Commission (HEC) has announced that all universities and affiliated colleges across Pakistan must introduce two mandatory courses on the understanding of the Holy Quran, starting from the Fall 2025 academic session.
In an official notification issued by the HEC’s Academics Division, Director Dr Farida Anjum directed vice chancellors, rectors, and heads of higher education institutions (HEIs) to ensure that the courses titled:
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“Understanding of the Holy Quran – I”
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“Understanding of the Holy Quran – II”
are formally included in the curricula of undergraduate, MS/MPhil, and PhD programs.
Courses to be Taught in Physical Mode Only
According to the HEC circular, both courses will carry 0–1 credit hour and must be conducted exclusively through physical classes. The directive applies uniformly to public and private universities, as well as their affiliated institutions.
This move builds on a 2005 initiative aimed at promoting greater comprehension of the Holy Quran’s message among students across all disciplines.
Universities Asked for Implementation and Training Reports
To ensure consistency in execution, the HEC has asked universities to submit updated implementation reports, confirming whether the courses have been formally incorporated into their academic structures.
The commission has also requested details on faculty preparation, specifically:
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Whether Arabic or Islamic Studies teachers assigned to teach the courses have received, or are scheduled to receive, training from the National Academy of Higher Education (NAHE)
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Plans for faculty orientation sessions prior to the launch of the courses
Monitoring Mechanism in Development
The HEC further stated that it is currently developing a monitoring system to track implementation progress across the country. Each institution is required to submit its compliance status via an online form provided by the commission.
Institutions have been urged to meet the deadline to ensure uniform adoption of the courses, which are now a national academic requirement.
The commission emphasized that timely and consistent compliance will help uphold the spirit of the initiative and ensure that students from all backgrounds gain a foundational understanding of the Holy Quran as part of their higher education experience.
