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Authorities have confirmed that board examinations for Class 5 and Class 8 in government schools across Rawalpindi will begin in 2026. Admission forms will be accepted from November 3 to 15, 2025, with Class 5 exams starting on February 9 and Class 8 exams scheduled from February 16 to 24, 2026. Results will be announced on March 31.
The responsibility for these exams has been shifted from the Punjab Examination Commission to the Punjab Education Curriculum Training and Assessment Authority (PECTA). Officials say the move is aimed at preparing students for board-style assessments before they transition to higher grades.
Teacher unions, however, have voiced concerns. Leaders Muhammad Shafiq Bhaluwalia and Basharat Iqbal Raja called it a “failed experiment,” arguing that exempting private schools will create an unfair burden on public school students. They further cautioned that if students particularly girls fail the Class 8 exam, dropout rates could rise.
Class 5 & 8 Exam Schedule 2026
| Class | Exam Dates | Results Announcement | Admission Form Dates |
| 5 | From Feb 9, 2026 | March 31, 2026 | Nov 3–15, 2025 |
| 8 | Feb 16–24, 2026 | March 31, 2026 | Nov 3–15, 2025 |
The policy aims to raise academic standards, but teachers fear it will cause stress and dropouts, especially among girls if they fail in Class 8.
Union leaders asked: “Why are private schools exempt if this exam is for student improvement?”
The debate continues will these exams strengthen learning or increase inequality in education?
