Career counselling: questions and answers

Q1: Dear Mr Abidi, I am currently doing A-Levels with Mathematics, Physics, and Computer Science. I am passionate about pursuing a career in Artificial Intelligence. Could you suggest the best fields and universities in Pakistan for AI studies?(Hassan Raza, Lahore)

Ans: Dear Hassan, it's excellent to see your interest in such a futuristic and impactful field. Artificial Intelligence is rapidly growing, and in Pakistan, universities like NUST, FAST-NUCES, and COMSATS offer specialised programmes in AI or Computer Science with AI majors. You should aim for a strong performance in your A-Levels and prepare for entrance exams as required by these universities. Additionally, keeping yourself updated with online AI certifications can also strengthen your profile. Best wishes for your journey into the world of AI!

Q2: Dear Sir, I have completed my Intermediate in Commerce (ICom) with 75% marks. I want to pursue a career in Accounting and Finance but I'm confused about whether I should go for ACCA, CA, or a university degree like BBA or BS Accounting & Finance. Please guide me.(Ali Javed, Karachi)

Ans: Dear Ali, congratulations on completing your ICom with good marks. If you are interested in a professional certification leading directly to accountancy, ACCA or CA would be excellent choices. However, if you prefer a broader academic route that opens options beyond accounting, then pursuing a BBA or BS in Accounting & Finance would be more suitable. Some students even combine both — earning a degree while simultaneously working on professional certifications. I recommend reflecting on your long-term goals (employment vs. entrepreneurship) to make an informed choice.

Q3: Dear Sir, I am in the first year of FSc (Pre-Medical), but I’m more interested in environmental sciences rather than MBBS. Could you advise me on the scope of environmental sciences in Pakistan and abroad?(Fatima Zahid, Attock)

Ans: Dear Fatima, it's refreshing to hear your interest in environmental sciences, which is a field of growing global importance. In Pakistan, universities like Quaid-i-Azam University (Islamabad), NUST, and Punjab University offer strong programmes in environmental sciences. Internationally, this field has wide applications in climate change, sustainability, and resource management. Graduates often find jobs in NGOs, government organisations, industries, and international bodies. Keep building a strong science background in FSc and consider internships or projects related to the environment to strengthen your profile.

Q4: Dear Sir, I am doing O-Levels and am interested in studying Law in the future. Could you suggest how I should plan my A-Level subjects and what universities I should target in Pakistan for a good LLB programme?(Zainab Hussain, Chakwal)

Ans: Dear Zainab, it’s great that you have already identified your career interest. For pursuing Law, subjects like English, History, Sociology, or even Law itself (if offered) at A-Levels are helpful. In Pakistan, excellent options for LLB include institutions like LUMS, University of London external programmes (offered through HND campuses), Punjab University, and Bahria University. Some programmes require an entrance test like LAT (Law Admission Test), so you should start preparing early. Focus on building strong analytical and writing skills, as they are critical for success in law.

(Syed Azhar Husnain Abidi is a renowned educationist in Pakistan, with more than 20 years of experience as provider of education counselling services. He has represented Pakistan in over 100 national and international seminars, conferences and fora. He is a recipient of the most coveted civil award Tamgha-e-Imtiaz).