The University of Karachi is set to introduce a semester-based system for its Associate Degree (AD) programs in Arts, Science, and Commerce, previously known as B.Com, BA, and B.Sc.

This move applies to affiliated public and private colleges and aligns with the Higher Education Commission’s (HEC) standardized AD framework across Pakistan.

Under the new system, students will undergo biannual exams, covering half the syllabus per semester, with five months of teaching followed by assessments. Each semester will span six months, including examinations.

The proposal, presented by Professor Dr. Anila Amber Malik, Secretary of the University’s Affiliation Committee, is scheduled for approval in an Academic Council meeting on December 3. If approved, the semester system will commence with the upcoming admissions cycle.

The policy marks a shift from the annual evaluation method adopted by public universities for the past four years. Karachi University’s semester-based approach, if implemented, will make it the first public university in Pakistan to adopt this model for AD programs.

Exams for each subject will carry 100 marks, assessed solely by the University’s Examination Department to accommodate both regular and private candidates. This contrasts with the typical semester format, where 40 percent of marks are college-assessed, and 60 percent are evaluated by the university.

HEC guidelines divide the AD curriculum into four semesters, promoting structured and standardized learning. Private universities have already transitioned to this system, and public institutions like Karachi University aim to stay competitive by adopting similar changes.

The semester system ensures better alignment with HEC’s graduate policy and offers students a more streamlined academic experience, bridging the gap between private and public sector education standards.

Source: ProPakistani