Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has launched its first government virtual school, enabling students from Grades 6 to 12 to attend online classes, access AI tutoring, and complete virtual science practicals from home.
WEBDESK – ABDUL REHMAN SHAHEER – MEDIABITES NEWS
Online Learning Initiative for Students
The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has launched the province’s first government virtual school, offering a new learning opportunity for students who are unable to attend traditional schools due to distance, personal circumstances, or other challenges. The initiative aims to make quality education accessible from home through digital learning.
Initially, the virtual school will offer classes from Grade 6 to Grade 12, allowing students to attend scheduled online lectures without visiting a physical campus.
Modern Classrooms and Virtual Labs
The virtual school has been established in Peshawar with dedicated soundproof lecture rooms for every subject. Teachers deliver lessons using multimedia technology, creating an interactive classroom experience similar to that of a conventional school.
To support science education, virtual laboratories have also been introduced for students from Grades 9 to 12. These online labs allow students to complete practical experiments through interactive drag-and-drop activities, ensuring they continue developing practical skills even while studying remotely.
AI Tutor and Online Assessments
According to Abdul Rehman, an AI expert associated with the project, students will benefit from an Artificial Intelligence-powered tutor that can answer academic questions and provide instant guidance throughout their learning journey.
The grading system will follow the same structure as traditional schools. Students will study one grade for an academic year before moving to the next level through online assessments. Each lesson will include objective-based quizzes designed to identify students’ strengths and highlight areas where additional improvement is needed.
The virtual school will also be registered with educational and technical boards, ensuring students receive recognized academic credentials.
Internet Challenges and Future Plans
While the initiative has been widely welcomed, concerns remain about internet connectivity in remote areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Limited access to reliable internet could make online learning difficult for many students.
Project officials acknowledged this challenge and said efforts are underway to improve internet access in underserved regions. They also confirmed that learning materials will be available offline, allowing students with limited connectivity to continue their education.
The launch of the virtual school marks a significant step toward expanding digital education in Pakistan, with the goal of making learning more flexible, inclusive, and accessible for students across the province.
