Executive Director of the Inter Boards Coordination Commission Dr Ghulam Ali Mallah, accompanied by Director Media and Communication Irfan Ali Ansari, visited the IBCC Regional Office in Peshawar and briefed local journalists on a comprehensive reform agenda aimed at modernising Pakistan’s credential services and examinations.
Dr Mallah described the IBCC reforms as a strategic push for transparency, efficiency and citizen-centric service delivery, highlighting efforts to strengthen governance, raise examination standards and improve international recognition of Pakistani qualifications.
He outlined the One-Window Digital Verification, Attestation and Citizen Facilitation Reform Initiative launched in 2025, saying the integrated online system now provides attestation and equivalence services, real-time verification, fast-track processing and a functioning customer care desk. According to the executive director, the move has removed manual verification steps, cut processing times, improved grievance redressal and increased public awareness through a targeted outreach campaign.
Dr Mallah noted that the platform is evolving into a broader digital verification ecosystem that supports overseas education, professional licensing, immigration and employment while also creating opportunities in IT, data management and customer support as part of the IBCC reforms.
On foreign credential quality, the IBCC has introduced National Reforms for the Regulation and Accreditation of Foreign Qualification Awarding Bodies, formally notified in February 2025. The framework sets clear standards and compliance mechanisms to protect students from unapproved or substandard qualifications and to reinforce institutional accountability.
Examination improvements under the IBCC reforms include the National Conceptual and Standardised Examination Reforms and a Model Assessment Framework designed to align assessments with higher-order thinking and international benchmarks. Digital exam preparedness and enhanced transparency aim to improve objectivity and credibility, supporting merit-based admissions and fair recruitment.
Looking ahead, Dr Mallah said IBCC plans to roll out National Flexible Learning Pathways and Inclusive Education Reforms by 2026 to expand access to science education, enable smoother academic transitions and broaden recognition of science subjects at secondary and higher secondary levels. These measures are expected to boost enrolment in science streams, enhance social mobility and support the development of a skilled workforce in Pakistan.
He also highlighted international benchmarking efforts under the International Benchmarking and Recognition Reform to align the Higher Secondary School Certificate with global standards through ECCTIS, a step intended to strengthen acceptance of HSSC credentials abroad and increase employer confidence in Pakistani qualifications.
Emphasising alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, Dr Mallah reiterated the commission’s commitment to modernise Pakistan’s education and examination systems through stakeholder consultation, effective oversight and evidence-based policymaking as part of the ongoing IBCC reforms.
