Punjab announces major reforms to matric and intermediate exams

LAHORE: The Board Committee of Chairmen, representing all nine educational boards in Punjab, has approved significant reforms to the examination system. These changes mark the end of the traditional manual paper-marking process and introduce more advanced technology to improve the efficiency and transparency of matriculation and intermediate annual exams.

One of the key changes is the mandatory implementation of biometric attendance for all candidates appearing in the exams. Starting in 2026, students registering for Class 9 and Class 11 exams will be required to provide thumb impressions. These biometric details will be used for identity verification and to monitor entry into examination centers.

Both government and private schools will be responsible for setting up the necessary biometric arrangements, including providing biometric devices and laptops. The examination boards will supply the required software for this system.

Another major shift is the move to digital paper marking. Under this system, examination boards will scan answer sheets and evaluate them on computer screens, replacing the traditional manual marking process. This change aims to reduce errors in marking and calculation, ensuring a more transparent assessment process.

In addition to these reforms, the science practical examination system has been upgraded. Practical exams will now be treated with more seriousness, ensuring proper assessment rather than being a mere formality.

The reforms will be implemented gradually, starting this year with biometric registration for Class 9 and Class 11 students. CCTV cameras will also be mandatory at all examination centers, with 400 examination centers in the Rawalpindi Division already installing cameras, funded by the students.

These changes reflect the government’s commitment to modernizing the education system and improving the integrity of the examination process.