The Punjab School Education Department has introduced four new subject groups for matriculation exams: Health Sciences, Agriculture, IT, and Entrepreneurship. This is the first major change in 70 years, designed to give students practical and career-oriented options beyond the traditional arts and science streams.
According to Secretary Khalid Naeem Wattoo, these new subjects will focus on both theory and practical learning. The theory portion will be worth 30 marks, while practicals will carry 40 marks, ensuring students gain hands-on experience in their chosen fields.
To implement these changes, the department plans to train existing teachers to teach the new curriculum, so there won’t be a need to hire additional staff. The training will help teachers effectively guide students in these specialized areas.
Students will have the opportunity to choose their preferred subject group when they start ninth grade. This new approach aims to help students explore their interests and prepare them for specific career paths at an early stage.
It also aligns education with the growing needs of industries like healthcare, technology, and agriculture.
This initiative is expected to make education more relevant and practical for students in Punjab. By introducing these subject groups, the department hopes to equip students with the skills needed to succeed in modern careers while broadening their learning horizons.
