From traditional chalkboards to clicks smart classrooms mark new era for Pakistan’s education system

ISLAMABAD, Jul 19 (APP): The familiar sound of chalk once gliding across blackboards is gradually giving way to the glow of digital screens, smartboards, and AI-powered learning tools in classrooms, marking the manifestation of a steady transformation in the country’s education landscape. The classroom that echoed with the sound of chalks now hums with the clicks of keyboards and digital devices.

             From public schools to higher educational institutions, technology is becoming an integral part of teaching and learning, opening new vistas for students to acquire digital skills and prepare for an increasingly technology-driven world.

           It was actually the COVID-19 pandemic that accelerated the transition to online learning, and what began as an emergency response has evolved into a broader digital shift. Today, Pakistani students, like millions of their peers worldwide, are exploring ChatGPT, AI-assisted learning tools and virtual classrooms as education continues to embrace innovation while retaining the central role of teachers.

             Students, while sharing their views with APP, expressed confidence in the growing use of AI-based education and appreciated the government’s efforts to modernize classrooms through digital learning initiatives.

             Hafsa and Qainat Bukhari of F-10/2 Model College for Girls said smart classrooms, online learning platforms and AI tools have made lessons more engaging and helped students understand complex concepts more effectively. They told digital learning has encouraged them to explore subjects beyond textbooks and improve their confidence in using modern technology.

             Kashif Ahmad, Syeda Hamda Fatima and Laiba Shehbaz told the news agency that digital platforms and AI applications are helping students acquire skills increasingly required in today’s technology-driven world. They believed the growing use of digital tools is broadening learning opportunities and enabling students to adapt to changing educational and professional demands.

               Senior students of the National University of Modern Languages (NUML), Bushra Jaffery and Asma, reflected upon the transition from traditional classrooms to AI-assisted learning. They told earlier generations depended largely on textbooks, libraries and classroom discussions, whereas today’s students increasingly use AI for research and assignments.

            While describing artificial intelligence as a valuable educational resource, they cautioned that excessive dependence on technology could weaken critical thinking, independent learning and meaningful interaction between teachers and students if not used responsibly.

            Teachers believe that digital transformation is not merely replacing chalkboards with smart screens but is gradually reshaping the culture of learning. According to them, classrooms that once relied almost entirely on chalk, textbooks and notebooks are evolving into technology-enabled spaces where innovation, creativity and digital literacy are becoming part of everyday education.

             Miss Shaheena Jamil of F-10/2 Model College for Girls, Nadia Ijaz of ICG F-6/2, Zainab Hawa of ICG, Rabia Tariq of IMCG F-10/2, Saeeda Awan of IMCG F-11/1 and Fouzia Iftikhar of IMCG F-10/2 told APP that the Federal Directorate of Education (FDE), under the incumbent government’s initiatives, has introduced Google Classroom, Chrome books from junior to senior classes, advanced digital laboratories, computer literacy programmes, robotics and Digital Creativity and Design Studio classes, expanding opportunities for technology-assisted learning in public sector educational institutions.

                They told that transformation extends beyond students, as teachers are regularly receiving training in the use of Chrome books, Google Classroom and AI-assisted teaching tools to make lessons more interactive and effective.

           According to them, even primary-level students are now being introduced to artificial intelligence and robotics, helping nurture curiosity, creativity and problem-solving abilities from an early age. They described these initiatives as an important step towards strengthening digital education and equipping students with the skills needed for their future.

                  IT experts view the digital transformation of education as a major step towards modernizing Pakistan’s learning system. “Smart technologies can improve access, enhance teaching methods and prepare students for the demands of the digital age, but success depends on proper infrastructure and teacher training,” said Mr Hashim Ayub, an IT expert.

                 Federal Secretary for Education Nadeem Mahbub told the news agency that the familiar sound of chalk on blackboards is gradually giving way to smart boards, Chrome books and AI-powered learning. Classrooms once driven mainly by rote learning are increasingly encouraging creativity, critical thinking and digital literacy.

                   “We are moving from chalk and talk to click and learn,” he said, adding that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and with the support of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, Pakistan is accelerating its journey towards digital education. He said artificial intelligence is opening new opportunities by making learning more interactive and personalized.

        However, he stressed that technology should remain a supporting tool rather than a substitute for teachers. “AI can never replace teachers,” he said, adding that alongside digital skills, students must continue reading, thinking critically and using technology responsibly.

          The Federal Secretary said digital education is not merely about introducing modern devices into classrooms but about preparing students for the changing demands of the global knowledge economy through improved access to technology, innovation and quality learning opportunities.

         As classrooms across Pakistan continue to embrace digital technologies, educators believe the transition from chalkboards to AI-assisted learning marks an important stage in the country’s evolving education system. They emphasized that while artificial intelligence can enrich classroom learning, its greatest value lies in supporting teachers, encouraging innovation and helping students develop critical thinking, creativity and responsible digital skills for the future.