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In a major move to modernize examination system, Punjab has announced significant reforms for matriculation and intermediate students. Starting this year 2026, biometric registration will be mandatory for Class 9 and Class 11 candidates, while paper marking will shift entirely to digital systems to ensure transparency and accuracy. CCTV cameras will also be installed at exam centers to strengthen monitoring.
The Board Committee of Chairmen (BOC) of all nine educational boards in Punjab has approved the reforms, ending the decades-old manual system of paper checking.
Under new rules, students will provide thumb prints, which will be used for verification and entry into exam halls. Both government and private schools will manage biometric devices and software, while all boards will supply the necessary scanning and marking technology.
Officials say digital marking will reduce human errors, miscalculations, and ensure fairer evaluation of students’ attempt. Science practical exams will also see improvements, moving away from mere formality to proper assessment of skills.
This year, the reforms will begin step by step, starting with biometric registration for Class 9 and Class 11 students. Rawalpindi Division has set up 400 examination centers, with CCTV installations are already underway. Authorities hope these changes will bring transparency and accountability to the examination process, which has long been criticized for irregularities and inefficiencies.
