Punjab’s Board Committee of Chairmen has approved sweeping reforms to modernize the matriculation and intermediate examination system, replacing traditional manual processes with biometric and digital technologies across all nine educational boards in the province.
Biometric Attendance to Become Mandatory
Under the new policy, biometric attendance will be compulsory for all male and female students appearing in board exams.
Starting 2026, students registering for:
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Class 9
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Class 11
will be required to provide thumb impressions during registration. These biometric records will later be used for verification and entry into examination centers.
Both government and private schools will be responsible for arranging:
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Biometric devices
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Laptops
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Necessary on-ground facilities
Examination boards, meanwhile, will provide only the required software for the system.
Shift to Digital Paper Marking
One of the biggest changes is the complete transition to digital paper marking. Answer sheets will now be:
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Scanned by examination boards
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Marked on computer screens
Officials say this move will:
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Reduce incorrect marking
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Eliminate calculation mistakes
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Improve transparency and fairness in assessments
Science Practical Exams Also Upgraded
Authorities have also overhauled the science practical examination system, ensuring that practicals are now properly assessed rather than treated as a mere formality.
Partial Implementation Begins This Year
While full implementation is planned in phases, this year will see partial rollout, beginning with biometric registration for Class 9 and 11 students.
CCTV Cameras Now Mandatory
To further strengthen monitoring, CCTV cameras will be mandatory at all examination centers this year.
In the Rawalpindi Division alone, authorities have established 400 examination centers for matric and intermediate exams. Installation of CCTV systems — funded by students — has already started.
A Move Toward Transparent Exams
Education officials believe these reforms mark a major shift toward a transparent, secure, and technology-driven examination system, aimed at restoring public confidence and minimizing malpractice.
