In a major move for Pakistan’s education sector, the UK-based City & Guilds education board has received an official approval to operate in the country. The authorization was granted by the Inter-Board Committee of Chairmen (IBCC) and endorsed by the Federal Ministry of Education, allows the board to offer internationally authorized academic and vocational qualifications.

Under this framework, GEMS Pathway has been launched to provide certifications equivalent to Pakistan’s Secondary School Certificate (SSC) and Higher Secondary School Certificate (HSSC). The program also includes vocational and skills-based certifications, all designed to meet global standards and enhance students’ employability.

The initiative was formally unveiled at the Global Skills Summit “Shaping Future Pakistan” in Karachi. The event brought together top education policymakers, including Minister of State for Education Wajiha Qamar, NAVTTC Chairperson Ghulmina Bilal, and IBCC Executive Director Ghulam Ali Mallah.

Speaking at the summit, Wajiha Qamar welcomed City & Guilds’ entry into Pakistan, calling it a “well-established international education body.” Ghulam Ali Mallah confirmed that the board is now fully authorized to operate under IBCC regulations.

City & Guilds already has a strong presence in Pakistan’s vocational sector. With this approval, it will now expand into general education, offering Skill Certificates equivalent to Intermediate and A-Level qualifications alongside vocational certifications. Experts believe this could create more opportunities for students seeking international-standard education without leaving Pakistan.