Punjab Curriculum and Textbook Board Introduces Matric-Tech Scheme for Grades 9th and 10th
The Punjab Curriculum and Textbook Board (PCTB) has officially introduced a new scheme of studies under the Matric-Tech (Computer Science) Group for Grades IX and X. This initiative aims to provide students with technical knowledge and skills alongside traditional academic education. The new curriculum, outlined in Annex-A, will be implemented following the approval given in the 122nd meeting of the Board.
Breakdown of the Scheme of Studies
The new scheme is designed to ensure a balanced blend of theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and extracurricular activities. Below is an overview of the curriculum:
Course Duration and Structure
- Duration: 2 Years
- Weekly Periods: 45
- Total Marks: 1200 (combining Grades IX and X)
Subjects and Marks Allocation
The subjects are divided into three main categories: Core Subjects, Technical Education, and Co-curricular Activities.
A. Morning Assembly Activities
- Includes Recitation of the Holy Quran, Naat, Dua, and National Anthem to promote moral and spiritual development.
B. Core Subjects
- Translation of the Holy Quran/Ethics (for Non-Muslims)
- Weekly Periods: 3
- Total Marks: 100
- Medium: Urdu/English
- Urdu
- Weekly Periods: 5
- Total Marks: 150
- English
- Weekly Periods: 5
- Total Marks: 150
- Islamiyat/Religious Education
- Weekly Periods: 5 (Grade IX only)
- Total Marks: 100
- Pakistan Studies
- Weekly Periods: 5 (Grade X only)
- Total Marks: 100
- Mathematics
- Weekly Periods: 6
- Total Marks: 150
- Physics (Technical)
- Weekly Periods: 4 (3 Theory + 1 Practical)
- Total Marks: 100
- Chemistry (Technical)
- Weekly Periods: 4 (3 Theory + 1 Practical)
- Total Marks: 100
- Computer Science and Entrepreneurship (Technical)
- Weekly Periods: 5 (3 Theory + 2 Practical)
- Total Marks: 100
- Information & Communication Technology (ICT)
- Weekly Periods: 6 (3 Theory + 3 Practical)
- Total Marks: 150
C. Co-Curricular Activities
Students will engage in extracurricular programs to enhance their practical skills:
- Tutorials (Speech, Quizzes, Critical Thinking)
- Civil Defense/Nursing, First Aid, and Sports
- Total Weekly Periods: 2
- Marks: A/B/C grading system
Benefits of the New Curriculum
- Skill Development: The integration of technical subjects like ICT and Computer Science ensures students gain essential skills for the modern job market.
- Holistic Education: A balanced approach, combining core academic knowledge, technical expertise, and extracurricular activities.
- Career Readiness: Students will be better prepared for technical education, entrepreneurship, or further studies in fields like engineering and computer science.
- Accessibility: The curriculum is designed to cater to both Urdu and English medium students, making it inclusive.
Summary
The Matric-Tech (Computer Science) scheme is a significant step toward modernizing education in Punjab. It prepares students for a technology-driven future while maintaining cultural and moral values. This scheme is a promising initiative for equipping students with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in academics and technical fields.
