The Private Educational Institutions Regulatory Authority (PEIRA) has approved the first comprehensive regulatory framework for virtual schools operating in the Islamabad Capital Territory. The new policy establishes official guidelines for the registration, regulation, monitoring, and quality assurance of online educational institutions offering classes from the primary level up to higher secondary education.
According to PEIRA, the framework is designed to make quality education more accessible to students who are unable to attend traditional schools. This includes out-of-school children, learners living in remote areas, children with disabilities, and individuals who are employed and require flexible learning options.
The newly approved regulations set clear standards to ensure that virtual education maintains the same level of quality and accountability as conventional schools. Under the framework, online institutions must provide teachers with training in digital teaching techniques and use secure learning management systems to support virtual classrooms.
The policy also introduces strict cybersecurity requirements to protect students and educational data. In addition, schools will be required to follow approved curricula, maintain academic quality, implement standardized assessment methods, and establish measures to safeguard students’ mental health and overall well-being.
To strengthen oversight, PEIRA will be granted read-only access to online learning systems, allowing the authority to monitor compliance, review academic activities, and ensure institutions meet the required standards.
The framework also outlines separate requirements for primary, middle, secondary, and higher secondary virtual education. These include minimum teacher qualifications, recommended screen-time limits for different age groups, arrangements for practical learning activities where needed, and regular monitoring procedures.
PEIRA Chairman Dr. Ghulam Ali Mallah described the approval of the framework as a major milestone in the modernization of Pakistan’s education sector. He said the initiative promotes responsible digital innovation while ensuring high educational standards. He also expressed hope that the new regulatory model would serve as a blueprint for other provinces and regions seeking to expand quality online education across the country.
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