In a landmark decision to reform the academic evaluation system, the Punjab Education Curriculum and Training Assessment Authority (PECTA) has announced the discontinuation of board examinations for Grade 5 and Grade 8 students across the province.
The announcement was made during a high-level meeting chaired by PECTA’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Shehanshah Faisal Azeem. Education leaders including Qazi Naeem Anjum, Chairman of the Serving Schools Alliance Pakistan, and several renowned education experts participated in the session.
New Assessment Policy for Primary and Middle School Students
Dr. Azeem addressed recent speculation regarding standardized board exams for Grades 5 and 8, firmly stating that students will now be evaluated through school-based assessments rather than formal board exams. This shift is designed to reduce exam-related stress among younger students and to promote deeper understanding through concept-driven learning.
Emphasis on Student Learning Outcomes at Matric Level
Another key development from the meeting was the proposal to incorporate Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs) into matriculation exam papers. Qazi Naeem Anjum recommended aligning the provincial exam format with the Federal Board’s structure, where 35% of the paper content is based on SLOs guided by Bloom’s Taxonomy. This change aims to encourage analytical thinking and discourage rote learning practices.
Launch of Modern Teacher Training Initiative
PECTA also revealed plans for a new professional development program for teachers, developed in collaboration with private educational institutions. This initiative will provide educators with modern teaching strategies and techniques aligned with global standards, aiming to uplift the overall quality of education in Punjab.