In a groundbreaking move, the updated Pakistan Studies syllabus for 10th-grade students has added the contributions of prominent women to the country’s development. This change, announced in January 2025, aims to highlight the important roles that women have played in shaping Pakistan from its creation in 1947 to the present day. Among the figures celebrated in the new curriculum are some of the most influential women in Pakistani history, including Maryam Nawaz, the Chief Minister of Punjab, and her late mother, Kulsoom Nawaz.
The updated textbook now includes the stories of many women who have made a significant impact in various fields, from politics and law to science and social services. Maryam Nawaz’s contribution is particularly significant, as she became Punjab’s first female Chief Minister in 2024. Under her leadership, several important projects have been launched across key sectors like education, healthcare, energy, agriculture, and infrastructure. Her achievements, along with those of her mother Kulsoom Nawaz, are now officially recognized in the Pakistan Studies curriculum.
Alongside Maryam Nawaz, the new syllabus also includes the contributions of other powerful women such as Fatima Jinnah, who was a key figure in the country’s creation. The curriculum now also acknowledges the work of Benazir Bhutto, the first female Prime Minister of Pakistan, and Fehmida Mirza, who served as the Speaker of the National Assembly from 2008 to 2013. These women are celebrated for their leadership and dedication to serving the country.
The updated syllabus also shines a light on figures like Nusrat Bhutto, Samina Baig, Arfa Karim, and Bilquis Edhi, who have made significant contributions to various sectors. Additionally, the achievements of women in the legal field, like Justice Ayesha Neelum, the first female Chief Justice of Lahore High Court, are also highlighted. This recognition is a testament to how women have consistently broken barriers and contributed to Pakistan’s progress in all areas of life.
These additions are not limited to public schools. The updated curriculum will be taught in both public and private schools across Pakistan, ensuring that students from all educational backgrounds are introduced to the stories of these remarkable women. The new chapter, featured on page 163 of the 2025 edition of the Pakistan Studies textbook, will now serve as a guide for students to learn about the diverse roles that women have played in Pakistan’s growth.
By including these women in the curriculum, the Pakistan Studies syllabus aims to inspire students to value the contributions of women in all aspects of society. It sends a powerful message about the importance of gender equality and the need to recognize the hard work and dedication of women who have helped shape the nation. As these women continue to inspire future generations, their legacy will be carried forward through this updated syllabus, ensuring that their contributions to Pakistan’s history are never forgotten.
