ISLAMABAD: The Federal Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education (FBISE) has been waiting for a response from the Capital Development Authority (CDA) to begin constructing three examination centres in the capital’s rural areas.

The board received approval from the prime minister to set up three purpose-built centres in Bhara Kahu, Taramri Chowk and Humak.

FBISE Chairman Dr Ikram Ali Malik told Dawn that the board has been trying to obtain land for the centres from the CDA for a few years. However, the CDA asked the FBISE to first get approval from the prime minister as this was a prerequisite for the allotment of land.

He said the FBISE obtained the prime minister’s approval through the Ministry of Federal Education and informed the CDA in May, but the matter is still pending.

Board obtained approval from PM for three purpose-built centres in capital’s rural areas

Another FBISE officer said that it was a matter of concern that the CDA board has held several meetings since May but did not take up the FBISE’s summary.

“We want to facilitate students from the rural areas, but the CDA is not taking this student-friendly matter seriously. It has been seven months since we shared the prime minister’s directive with the CDA, but still there is no progress,” he said.

FBISE officials said the exam centres would primarily be used for the Higher Secondary School Certificate and Secondary School Certificate exams.

But the board will also set up science laboratories in these buildings which students from affiliated institutions including private schools will be able to use throughout the year. Students will also be provided indoor sports facilities, officials said.

Many private schools in the rural areas lack sports grounds and lab facilities, they said.

The FBISE currently conducts exams in halls at various schools in the rural areas, but sometimes has to hold the exams in urban areas because of overcrowding, the officials said.

The FBISE letter addressed to the CDA and dated May 6, 2019, stated: “Now, the honourable prime minister of Pakistan has graciously approved the subject summary for the allotment of one acre of land on each of the following identified sites. I Bharakau (Kot Hatyal/Jughi Stop), II Tramari Chowk, Park Road, III Humak (village Niazian).”

The letter, available with Dawn, added: “You are, therefore, requested to proceed further for allotment of land to FBISE as per approval of the honourable prime minister.”

When contacted, CDA spokesperson Syed Safdar Ali said the FBISE’s case will be taken up by the CDA board.

“The summary has been prepared, which will be placed before the CDA’s board for a final decision,” he said.

When asked about the delay, he said: “This case will be taken up at priority as earlier court cases and other urgent cases were discussed and decided by the board. Now this case will also be taken up.”

Published in Dawn, December 24th, 2019