Punjab’s traditional board examination system for grades nine and ten will be replaced by a new assessment test under sweeping reforms announced by the Schools Education Department.
Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat said the move is aimed at improving student learning outcomes, ensuring stronger academic performance, and reinforcing early-stage foundational skills.
Under the new plan, the Punjab Examination Commission for Testing and Assessment (PECTA) will oversee the eighth-grade assessment, with a complete set of guidelines to be released in the next 20 days.
Initially, the system will be implemented across government schools in the province. Private schools will have the option to adopt the assessment test or continue with board exams. The first cycle of the new assessments is scheduled for February or March of the coming year.
The department says the reform is designed to modernize evaluation methods and reduce dependence on rote learning, preparing students for a more competitive academic environment.