Career counselling: questions and answers

Q1: Dear Mr Abidi, I have completed my A-Levels with subjects Business, Economics, and Accounting. I am interested in pursuing a career in Business Analytics. Could you guide me about the best programmes and universities in Pakistan for this field?

(Ayesha Rehman, Gujrat)

Ans: Dear Ayesha, Business Analytics is an excellent and emerging career choice, blending business knowledge with data-driven decision-making. Universities like LUMS, IBA Karachi, and NUST offer strong programmes in Business Administration with specialisations in Business Analytics or Management Information Systems. You can also consider degrees like BS Business Analytics where available. Strengthening your skills in statistics, data visualisation, and business intelligence software will be crucial for success.

Q2: Dear Sir, I am finishing my FSc (Pre-Medical) but now I am more interested in Environmental Sciences. What would be the best path for me, and which universities should I consider?

(Ahmed Raza, Gujranwala)

Ans: Dear Ahmed, Environmental Sciences is a timely and impactful field with growing importance in Pakistan and worldwide. Top universities such as Quaid-i-Azam University, NUST, and the University of Karachi offer BS programmes in Environmental Sciences. Your background in Pre-Medical is suitable, as the field requires a strong foundation in biology and chemistry. Focus on developing research skills and stay updated on global environmental issues to build a strong career.

Q3: Dear Sir, I have completed my Intermediate in Computer Science (ICS) and wish to pursue a career in Cybersecurity. Could you recommend the best degrees and universities in Pakistan for this path?

(Bilal Asif, Peshawar)

Ans: Dear Bilal, Cybersecurity is a vital and high-demand field today. Universities like NUST, FAST-NUCES, and Bahria University offer specialised degrees or BS programmes in Cybersecurity and Information Security. Alternatively, a BS in Computer Science with cybersecurity electives is also a good option. It's important to build strong skills in networking, ethical hacking, and security protocols. Earning certifications like CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker) alongside your studies can greatly boost your career prospects.

Q4: Dear Mr Abidi, I am doing my O-Levels and am passionate about becoming a lawyer. Could you suggest the A-Level subject combination I should choose and the best universities for Law in Pakistan?

(Fatima Naveed, Karachi)

Ans: Dear Fatima, it's inspiring that you are planning for a legal career early on. For A-Levels, subjects like Law, English Literature, and History are highly recommended, though universities generally require three A-Level passes regardless of subjects. Top universities offering LLB programs in Pakistan include LUMS, University of London International Programmes (through affiliate centers like SZABIST and TILS), and Punjab University. Building strong analytical, research, and communication skills will be key to your success in the legal profession.

(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).