The Punjab government has announced a new examination reform initiative that will introduce online screen marking on a pilot basis during the upcoming supplementary board examinations.
The announcement was made by Punjab Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat while chairing an introductory meeting with the newly appointed chairpersons of the province’s Boards of Intermediate and Secondary Education (BISEs).
Online Screen Marking to Begin with Supplementary Exams
As part of the reforms, Punjab’s education boards will pilot an online screen marking system, replacing traditional paper-based evaluation for selected supplementary examinations.
The initiative is aimed at modernizing the examination system and improving the transparency and efficiency of paper checking.
Focus on Transparent Examinations
The education minister directed board officials to accelerate examination reforms by adopting modern technology and strengthening oversight throughout the examination process.
He stressed that there should be no room for errors in:
- Paper setting
- Paper marking
- Invigilation
According to the minister, education boards carry the responsibility of protecting the academic future of millions of students.
Crackdown on Political Interference and Exam Mafias
During the meeting, Rana Sikandar Hayat instructed board chairpersons to ensure that examinations remain free from:
- Political interference
- Examination mafias
- Unfair practices
He emphasized the need to uphold merit and maintain the credibility of Punjab’s board examination system.
Increased Monitoring of Marking and Examination Centres
The minister also directed board chairpersons to:
- Regularly inspect marking centres.
- Closely monitor sensitive examination centres.
- Take disciplinary action against examiners found checking papers incorrectly.
The measures are intended to improve the quality and fairness of the assessment process.
Better Facilities for Students
In addition to examination reforms, the minister instructed authorities to ensure that examination centres provide basic facilities for students, including:
- Uninterrupted electricity
- Functional fans
- Safe drinking water
- Proper lighting
He said students should not face unnecessary difficulties while appearing in examinations.
