The Higher Education Commission (HEC) has instructed all universities and affiliated colleges across Pakistan to include two compulsory Quran courses in undergraduate and postgraduate programs starting Fall 2025.
According to an official notification from HEC’s Academics Division, Director Dr. Farida Anjum directed vice chancellors and heads of institutions to introduce the courses titled “Understanding of the Holy Quran – I” and “Understanding of the Holy Quran – II” for BS, MS/MPhil, and PhD levels. Each course will carry 0–1 credit hour and must be conducted in-person only, as per the circular.
The HEC noted that the initiative was first proposed in 2005 to enhance students’ comprehension of the Quran’s teachings. Universities have now been asked to submit updated implementation reports, confirming the inclusion of these courses in their curricula.
Institutions must also provide details of faculty orientation and training, including whether Arabic and Islamic Studies instructors have been trained — or are scheduled for training — through the National Academy of Higher Education (NAHE) before the new session begins.
The commission added that it is creating a monitoring system to ensure consistent implementation and has asked universities to fill out an online compliance form provided by HEC.
The circular emphasized that timely action will ensure uniform adoption of Quran understanding courses across all public and private higher education institutions in Pakistan.
