Pakistani students preparing for international exams now have fresh tools tailored to their needs. OxfordAQA, a joint venture between Oxford University Press and the UK’s AQA board, has rolled out three new mandatory subjects: International GCSE in Urdu, Islamiat, and Pakistan Studies. This move, announced on September 23, 2025, aims to mix world-class learning with Pakistan’s cultural roots.
Director Salma Adil called it a proud moment. “Introducing exams and textbooks for Urdu, Islamiat, and Pakistan Studies brings us great joy,” she said. “It shows our commitment to giving schools resources that build skills for the future.”
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What the New Subjects Cover
These International GCSEs focus on clear thinking and real-world skills. The syllabi dive into Pakistan’s history, geography, Islamic traditions, and Urdu literature. They use simple language and link local topics to global events, like Pakistan’s role on the world stage.
Teachers from Pakistan helped shape the content. It builds on national curriculum themes for smooth progress. Students get chances for group work and independent research, key for exam prep.
Oxford University Press Pakistan’s Managing Director Arshad Saeed Husain added that the partnership brings top expertise to local classrooms. It helps kids gain skills that matter today.
The textbooks launch alongside the specs, making them ready for schools now.
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Cambridge’s Free Access to Answer Scripts
In related news, the Cambridge International Examinations board has started letting Pakistani O and A Level students view their answer scripts for free. Country Manager Uzma Yousuf shared this during a Karachi media talk on September 26, 2025. It’s a first for Pakistan, unlike local boards that don’t allow it.
All affiliated schools get online access to scripts for enrolled students. Kids can check them at school, spot issues, and decide on scrutiny if needed. No fees at all—Yousuf stressed it’s fully free.
She noted Pakistan leads the world with 130,000 Cambridge O and A Level students. The US comes next, then China, India, and Dubai. Around 800 schools here link with Cambridge.
Yousuf also praised the board’s concise syllabi. “No extra load—students learn just what’s needed,” she said.
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Why These Changes Matter
Both steps push for fairer, better education. OxfordAQA’s subjects make global exams feel closer to home, boosting critical skills. Cambridge’s script access adds trust—students see how marks come and learn from it.
These fit Pakistan’s drive for quality schooling. With more kids in international programs, tools like these help them shine abroad.
Looking Ahead
Schools can adopt the new syllabi right away. Cambridge’s script viewing starts this exam cycle.
These updates could draw more students to international paths. They stress skills over rote learning, a win for all.
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