The Punjab School Education Department has announced a major shift in its examination structure, phasing out traditional board exams for certain grades and introducing a new assessment-based system. The reform aims to enhance learning outcomes and improve foundational skills among students.
New Testing Approach for Grades Nine and Ten
Punjab Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat confirmed that the upcoming assessment tests will focus on evaluating both academic performance and core competencies in grades nine and ten. The initiative is part of broader educational reforms intended to move beyond rote learning and encourage analytical thinking.
In addition, the department has revealed that eighth-grade students will undergo a standardized assessment administered by the Punjab Examination Commission and Testing Authority (PECTA). Detailed guidelines on the exam format and procedures are expected within the next 20 days.
Gradual Rollout and Private School Flexibility
The new system will first be implemented in government schools across the province. For private institutions, the board examination will no longer be mandatory; instead, schools will have the choice to adopt the new assessment method or continue with the traditional board exams. This change for private schools is set to take effect from the next academic session, scheduled to begin in February or March next year.
Education authorities believe the revised approach will create a fairer, more comprehensive evaluation of students’ abilities while aligning Punjab’s school system with modern educational standards. Officials emphasize that the transition will be monitored closely to ensure quality and fairness during the initial phase.
The reform reflects a growing trend in education policy — moving away from high-stakes, end-of-year board exams toward more continuous and skill-based evaluation methods.