Authorities have decided to hold board examinations for Class 5 and Class 8 students in government schools across Rawalpindi starting in 2026.
As per the official schedule, admission forms for the annual exams will be accepted from November 3 to 15, 2025. Class 5 exams will commence on February 9, 2026, while Class 8 exams are set for February 16 to 24. Results will be declared on March 31.
The Punjab Education Curriculum Training and Assessment Authority (PECTA) has been tasked with organizing the exams, taking over from the Punjab Examination Commission. A spokesperson said the move aims to prepare students for board-style assessments before they enter higher grades.
Teacher unions have opposed the plan, labeling it a failed experiment attempted twice in the past. Leaders Muhammad Shafiq Bhaluwalia and Basharat Iqbal Raja warned that exempting private schools will place extra pressure on public school students.
They cautioned that many children, especially girls, may drop out if they fail the Class 8 exam.