LAHORE: The Punjab School Education Board (PSEB) has announced that starting next year, Class 8 students will participate in board examinations conducted at designated examination centers, moving away from the previous practice of holding exams within their own schools. This initiative aligns with PSEB’s broader educational reforms aimed at enhancing the standard of education and ensuring uniformity across the state’s assessment procedures.
To uphold the integrity and transparency of the examination process, PSEB has outlined that these exams will be administered at independent testing centers. Oversight will be provided by educators from different schools, alongside board officials, ensuring impartial supervision. Furthermore, the evaluation of answer sheets will be carried out by teachers from various institutions, promoting an unbiased grading system that benefits all students.
Introducing board examinations at the Class 8 level is anticipated to standardize the assessment process, providing students with a clear understanding of their academic standing. This early exposure to board exams is expected to better prepare students for subsequent assessments in higher classes, fostering a culture of academic rigor and excellence.
Current Examination Schedule
Meanwhile, the annual matriculation exams for ninth and tenth grades are underway across all nine Boards of Intermediate and Secondary Education (BISEs) in Punjab, including Rawalpindi. Upcoming exams for 12th-grade students are set to begin on April 29, followed by 11th-grade exams on May 20.
To ensure the sanctity of the examination process, PSEB has implemented stringent security protocols at all examination centers. These measures include the installation of CCTV cameras and the enforcement of Section 144 to prevent unauthorized gatherings around exam venues. Additionally, the possession of mobile phones and any materials that could facilitate unfair practices is strictly prohibited within the examination premises. Law enforcement agencies are actively involved in monitoring and securing the transportation of examination papers to prevent any potential malpractices.
These comprehensive reforms and measures underscore PSEB’s commitment to elevating the quality of education and ensuring a fair, transparent, and standardized evaluation system for students across Punjab.