HEC Extends Registration Deadline to January 3

News Desk

Islamabad: The Higher Education Commission (HEC) has extended the registration deadline until January 3, 2024, for the centralized test aimed at computer science and IT graduates seeking apprenticeships in Pakistan’s top IT companies.

The test date, scheduled for January 7, 2024, remains unchanged, as per the press release issued on Friday.

Eligible students, particularly those enrolled in the 7th semester of Computer Science/IT-related programs at recognized public and private sector universities and affiliated colleges, are encouraged to register via the Virtual University (VU) link: https://www.vu.edu.pk/GraduateTest/.

This extension decision followed a virtual meeting among Vice Chancellors, Rectors, and Heads of Departments of Computer Science and IT from various public and private sector Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). The aim is to ensure maximum participation from eligible students, providing them with this valuable opportunity.

Chairman HEC urged universities, especially IT and Computer Science Departments, to facilitate the registration of 7th-semester students and their active involvement in the test.

He highlighted the importance of HEIs appointing focal persons promptly for seamless communication regarding all aspects of the test. The initiative’s core objective is to equip IT graduates with the essential skills, knowledge, and attributes required to excel in the ever-evolving IT industry. Furthermore, the test aims to identify academic and training gaps in fresh IT graduates, which can be addressed through specialized modules, apprenticeships, or boot camps aligned with industry demands.

HEC, in collaboration with stakeholders such as the Ministry of IT and Telecommunications, the National Computing Education Accreditation Council (NCEAC), the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB), and the Pakistan IT Industry Association (P@SHA), aims to bridge the gap between the IT industry and academia. This collaboration aims to enhance the market readiness of IT students.

Successful candidates in the test will secure placements in various IT companies, including leading IT exporters in Pakistan, through P@SHA. This opportunity will offer hands-on experience in real-time projects. Additionally, qualifying candidates may receive credit hours exemption in the 8th semester for electives or mandatory field experience.

The industry placement program is scheduled for Spring 2024. Upon successful completion of the program, candidates’ credentials, with recommendations, will be featured on the PSEB and P@SHA portals, providing access to a broad spectrum of IT companies and potential job offers.