Punjab Makes Board Exams Mandatory for Junior Classes

The Punjab Education Department has issued a notification mandating board-level examinations for 5th and 6th-grade students across the province. The exams will be administered by the Punjab Education Curriculum Training and Assessment Authority (PECTAA).

According to the circular, the decision follows a review of recent ninth and tenth-grade board exam results, which were found to be below expectations. Officials believe that introducing earlier exposure to board examinations will help improve students’ academic and cognitive preparation, ultimately leading to better outcomes in higher classes.

Heads of schools have been directed to begin preparations immediately. The Education Department has also asked each institution to submit an academic improvement plan to align with the new examination structure.

Teachers’ Union Criticizes the Move

The Punjab Teachers’ Union has expressed strong reservations, stating that previous attempts to conduct board exams at the fifth-grade level were unsuccessful. Union representatives argue that instead of introducing new policies without broad consultation, the department should focus on creating a long-term, unified strategy for educational assessment and instruction.

The new policy is expected to take effect in the current academic year, though it faces pushback from educators concerned about its implementation and impact on students.