ISLAMABAD, APR 6 /DNA/ – The Higher Education Commission (HEC) Pakistan has successfully conducted National Skill Competency Test (NSCT) nationwide for the students enrolled in the 7th and 8th semesters of computing programmes.
The test, held across 165 centres in 112 cities, marked a major step towards strengthening skills assessment and opportunities for students across Pakistan.
Federal Minister for IT & Telecommunications Shaza Fatima Khawaja, along with the Federal Secretary IT, visited the Virtual University Control Centre in Islamabad, where they were briefed by HEC on the overall progress. Live monitoring of centres was observed, reflecting the scale and coordination of this effort.
The Minister appreciated the contributions of universities, institutional heads, focal persons, and on-ground teams whose dedication ensured the smooth and successful conduct of NSCT.
Chairman HEC Dr. Niaz Ahmad Akhtar also visited the VU and noted that the test was conducted smoothly and efficiently. He appreciated the Rector and the Virtual University team for executing the initiative effectively.
The free-of-charge, computer-based NSCT enables the IT students to be part of the national IT talent pool and have access to employment opportunities in the IT industry. High-achieving students will receive a joint certificate by HEC, Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB), and Pakistan Software Houses Association (P@SHA). In addition, the qualifying students will receive one academic credit from their respective institutions and gain prioritised access to internships, apprenticeships, and international certification pathways.
HEC announced the commencement of NSCT for IT graduates in January as a landmark initiative to align academic outcomes with the rapidly evolving demands of the global technology sector.
