Punjab Makes Major Changes to Matric and Inter Exams. Punjab educational system is set to undergo a major transformation as the Board Committee of Chairmen (BOC) of all nine educational boards in the province approved significant reforms for matriculation and intermediate examinations. These reforms mark the end of traditional manual paper marking and monitoring, paving the way for a more transparent, digital, and accountable system.
Biometric Attendance Becomes Mandatory
Starting in 2026, all students appearing in matric (Class 9 & 10) and intermediate (Class 11 & 12) annual examinations will be required to undergo biometric registration. Both male and female students must provide their thumb impressions during registration.
Authorities will use these biometric details for:
- Verification of student identity
- Entry management at examination centers
- Prevention of impersonation or malpractice
Government and private schools will bear the responsibility of arranging all biometric systems, including biometric devices and laptops, while examination boards will supply the necessary software for processing and verification.
Shift from Manual to Digital Paper Marking
In a historic move, the BOC has approved a complete transition to digital paper marking. This means that instead of manually evaluating handwritten answer sheets, examination boards will now:
- Scan all answer sheets
- Mark answers directly on computer screens
Officials emphasize that this shift will:
- Eliminate human errors in marking and calculation
- Ensure accuracy and consistency in assessments
- Enhance transparency in the grading process
The digital system is expected to provide faster results and reduce delays that are commonly experienced under the traditional manual system.
Upgraded Science Practical Examinations
Alongside digital reforms, the science practical examination system has been revamped. Officials have highlighted that practical exams will now be treated as a genuine assessment of skills rather than a mere formality.
The key changes include:
- Structured practical assessments with proper evaluation criteria
- Monitoring to ensure fairness and standardization
- Increased accountability for examiners
These reforms aim to improve the quality of science education and better prepare students for higher education and professional fields.
Partial Implementation in 2026
Authorities have announced that these reforms will be partially implemented this year, focusing initially on:
- Biometric registration for Class 9 and Class 11 students
- Installation of CCTV cameras at all examination centers
In the Rawalpindi Division, a total of 400 matric and intermediate examination centers have been selected for CCTV installation. The cost for these cameras is being funded by students, ensuring security and surveillance during exams.
CCTV Cameras to Enhance Security
The introduction of CCTV cameras at examination centers will:
- Monitor exam halls in real-time
- Prevent cheating and malpractice
- Ensure student safety and accountability
Officials say this initiative, combined with biometric verification, will make the exam process more secure and reliable than ever before.
Responsibilities of Schools and Examination Boards
Under the new system:
- Schools (Government and Private):
- Provide biometric devices and laptops
- Facilitate smooth registration and attendance tracking
- Examination Boards:
- Supply software for biometric verification
- Oversee digital marking of answer sheets
- Monitor exam centers’ CCTV coverage
This division of responsibilities ensures that implementation is efficient and standardized across the province.
Benefits of the New Examination System
The reforms are expected to provide multiple advantages for students, teachers, and administrators:
- Accuracy in Grading: Digital marking reduces human errors and ensures fairness.
- Transparency: Biometric verification and CCTV surveillance minimize malpractice and impersonation.
- Skill-based Assessment: Science practical exams will now truly assess student competency.
- Speed: Faster scanning and digital evaluation will lead to quicker result declarations.
- Accountability: Students, schools, and examiners are all held responsible under the new system.
Experts believe that these changes will modernize Punjab’s education system and set a benchmark for other provinces.
Challenges and Considerations
While the reforms are highly promising, officials and schools need to address potential challenges:
- Ensuring technical readiness in remote areas
- Training staff and teachers for digital marking systems
- Maintaining data security of biometric and digital records
- Managing additional financial costs for CCTV installation and devices
Despite these challenges, authorities remain confident that careful planning and phased implementation will ensure success.
Conclusion
Punjab’s major examination reforms for 2026 represent a historic shift towards modernization, transparency, and accountability. With mandatory biometric registration, digital paper marking, and enhanced practical assessments, students can expect a fairer and more secure examination process. These changes aim to improve overall educational standards and build trust in the evaluation system.
