With a recent surge in the COVID-19 cases in Pakistan, the authorities are mulling over the possibilities of promoting grade 9 and 11 students without examination.
This was discussed in an online meeting of the Steering Committee of the Inter Board Committee of Chairmen (IBCC). A suggestion of shortening the exams was also given by taking optional exams in place of compulsory, a newspaper reported.
The Chairman Aga Khan Board and Head of the Steering Committee, Dr Nizam Jiva presided the meeting.
IBCC Secretary Dr Ghulam Ali Mallah, Intermediate Board Karachi Chairman Dr Saeeduddin, Sargodha Board of Education Chairperson Dr Kausar Raees, Kohat Board Chairman Dr Shaukat Hayat, and Federal Board Chairman Dr Qaiser Alam were present in the meeting.
The participants were told that the optional exam policy can be implemented on science subjects but in the case of arts, it will be difficult since there are many optional subjects. In the meeting, there was a consensus on taking exams for grades 10 and 12 while students of grades 9 and 11 are sent to the next classes without exams.
Furthermore, if the IBCC agrees to go ahead with class 10 and 12 examinations then the matter will be forwarded to Inter-Provincial Education Ministers Conference to seek approval.
Last week, the Federal Minister for Education Shafqat Mahmood announced the cancellation of all exams in the country until June 15 due to the Covid-19 situation in the country.
He said the decision is taken after considering the health concerns of students and parents. The situation will be reviewed in June and decision on the examinations will be taken accordingly.
