HEC Ready to Launch Courses on Cryptocurrency and Blockchain in Pakistan

The Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan is poised to introduce courses on cryptocurrency and blockchain technology, but awaits policy guidance from the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication (MoITT) for a comprehensive program. This development was highlighted in a question posed by Dr. Sharmila Faruqui in the National Assembly, addressing Pakistan's evolving regulatory landscape for virtual assets.

The Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication has established the Pakistan Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (PVARA), a distinct statutory body under the Virtual Assets Act, 2026. PVARA is tasked with overseeing virtual asset service providers, fostering responsible innovation, safeguarding consumers, and ensuring adherence to legal, financial, anti-money laundering, and counterterrorism financing rules.

Under PVARA's purview, a regulatory sandbox has been launched, enabling eligible blockchain and virtual asset firms to develop, test, and implement products, services, and business models within a controlled environment. Applications for the sandbox are being received and assessed by PVARA. The government has also unveiled the Pakistan Virtual Assets Services Regulations, which outline the regulation and supervision of virtual asset service providers.

These draft regulations, along with the Virtual Asset Activity Specific Handbook, were published for public consultation on June 11, 2026, with final approval and implementation procedures underway. Regarding workforce training and education, the HEC has not yet initiated a collaborative program with the National Vocational and Technical Training Commission (NAVATT) for digital asset management.

HEC indicated that it has not received any policy directives from MoITT to develop a joint HEC and NAVATT program. Nevertheless, universities in Pakistan can still incorporate courses, specializations, and interdisciplinary programs on emerging technologies, such as cryptocurrency and blockchain, within their existing curricula and approval processes.

While the government has established a robust regulatory framework for virtual assets, the demand for specialized education and workforce training in these areas remains dependent on further guidance from the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication.