ISLAMABAD: The Federal Directorate of Education (FDE) has launched a new online admission portal for undergraduate programmes at its colleges, a move that has drawn praise from students and parents alike as a long-awaited step to modernise the process.
The digital platform, which went live earlier this week, has already received hundreds of applications within days of its rollout. Applicants said the system has replaced long queues, paperwork and confusion with a simple, transparent and user-friendly process.
“It was the first time we didn’t have to run from one campus to another. Everything was online, and it actually worked,” said a parent outside a federal college. Students noted that the portal allows them to apply to multiple institutions from home, saving time and effort.
An FDE representative said the initiative is aimed at ensuring equal access and merit-based admissions. “Every applicant now has the same opportunity, and the process is purely merit-driven,” the official added.
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Officials said the portal reduces the risk of human error and curbs the possibility of preferential treatment, longstanding concerns in public sector admissions. Additional features will be introduced gradually based on feedback, while discussions are underway to expand the system to other levels of education.
Observers said the smooth launch of the portal — unusual for a public sector digital project — could help restore confidence in state-run educational institutions at a time when public trust has been under strain.
