Education is the most important aspects of a child’s growth. As parents and students in Pakistan, understanding multiple education systems is important to making informed decisions about a student’s future. The O Level education system is a choice for many parents in Pakistan, but how does it compare to the Secondary Education system?

In this blog, we’ll explore what O Level education is, how it differs from the Secondary Education system in Pakistan, and what it means for students.

 What is O Level Education?

O Level (Ordinary Level) education is a globally recognized qualification offered by Cambridge International Examinations (CIE). It is specially designed for students around the world and observe various subjects. In Pakistan, many students pursue O Level education after completing their primary education (up to Class 8).

But O Level means which class exactly? In Pakistan, O Level education typically starts in Class 9 and continues until Class 10. At the end of this period, students take the O Level exams, which are equivalent to the Matriculation exams of the Secondary Education system in Pakistan.

 Understanding the Secondary Education System in Pakistan

In Pakistan, the Secondary Education system is regulated  by various boards, including the Federal Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education (FBISE). This system is more commonly followed by students who do not go  for O Level education.

Secondary education starts in Class 9 and ends in Class 10, after which students appear for the Matriculation exams. Such examinations are held under the auspices of boards like the FBISE and various other provincial boards in Pakistan. After passing these Matriculation exams, students can progress to the level of Intermediate or FSc / FA.

O Level vs. Secondary Education System: What Are The Differences?

The following provides an insight into the major perspectives on O Level education and the Secondary Education system in Pakistan: 

Curriculum – O Level Subjects: The O Level curriculum is wider in scope and diversity. Students have a choice from a variety of subjects such as Mathematics, Sciences, Languages, and Humanities to name a few. This feature enables students to pursue their interests. Common O Level subjects include: – English Language – Mathematics – Physics, Chemistry, Biology – Economics – Business Studies Secondary Education Subjects: The subjects in the Secondary Education system are more standardized. Major subjects are the following – – Urdu – English – Islamic studies – Mathematics – Pakistan Studies – Sciences Biology, chemistry and physics

 Assessment Style – O Level Assessment O level examinations are part of Cambridge International Examinations. The orders lean more on a wider scale are A to E. It includes; writings, practicals and coursework; thus promoting comprehension and use of information. Quality assessment is mostly based on written materials and there is very little practical work involved. A generalized approach is used as, the graduate system, a student is required to meet normal marks for a student to pass in certain subjects.

Teaching Approach – O Level Education For this O Level schools, quite a lot of the teaching is of an interactive nature. They make sure they talk, they ask and even think. Concentration has been placed on the learning of concepts rather than rote learning. – Secondary Education Generally, in Pakistan, traditional Secondary Education system is based on sheer memorization of the concepts. Although this enables the students to do well in examinations, it does not automatically ensure similar understanding as the O level education provides.

Language of Instruction

– O Level: “O” level schools in Pakistan observe English as the chief language of instruction, a cut across many which help students greatly in future while for matriculation urdu is observed as primary source of medium.

Which One Is Better for Your Child

It is important to note that deciding whether to go for O Level education or the Secondary Education system is subjective and will depend on several factors like the learning style of your child, future aspirations in career or otherwise, etc.

O Level. Let us say, for instance, your child aspires to attend college abroad or study internationally, and gain O level understanding. This is because the curriculum and grading criteria are internationally based and would aid the individual to work out of Pakistan. The emphasis on interactive teaching also encourages and enhances the thinking and problem-solving sphere.

Secondary Education. Whereas, in case your child wants to remain in Pakistan and pursue higher studies within the country, the secondary education system will be a better choice. Colleges and universities in Pakistan through the Federal Board of Intermediate and other provincial boards provide a concrete pathway to higher education.

O Level Subjects, What Should You Choose?

One of the sensitive issues for students is the choice of subjects for O Level examinations. This is because depending on their needs and future career ambitions, students have a wide array of subjects in O Level and can make good decisions on which to pick and which to leave.

For instance: – Suppose your child loves Information technology and undertakes the O Level exams in formal education then the child should select: Principles of accounts, Mathematics, Add. Mathematics, Physics, and ICT.

In case of Medical aspirants such subjects as Biology, Chemistry and Physics will be restorative.

Those interested in Business or Economics for instance may opt for studying Business Studies, Economics, and Mathematics.

It is advisable to take guidance from teachers and career counselors in order to assist your child in decision making.

The Federal Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education also yet another regulatory authority that regulates the Secondary Education system of Pakistan. It is required that the syllabus, examinations and the level of education are in par in every corner of the country. Although O Level education is more commendable outside the country, the FBISE prepares the learners very well for advanced studies within Pakistan.

Conclusion

In summation, the system of O level education as well as the Secondary Education system of Pakistan has both advantages as well as disadvantages. The system of O level is flexible and widely recognized and possesses a wide curriculum and the system of education in Pakistan is anchored in the educational system of the country and can be of benefit to its academics who want to further their education in the country.

In the end, the final decision will come down to what your child hopes for his or her future, what occupational aspirations are and what preferences of learning he or she has. Whatever path they go for whether O Level or Secondary Education system letting them realize their fullest capabilities is all that matters.