ISLAMABAD, Dec 27: The World Bank (WB) is vetting the credentials of the firms shortlisted for reforming the competitive examinations. The Federal Public Service Commission (FPSC) had shortlisted a couple of firms to reform the current examination system that forms the basis of entry into the civil services of the country.

An FPSC official said the World Bank was checking whether or not the shortlisted firms conform with the terms of reference. Changes in the current examination system would depend on the recommendations made by the firm assigned this task.

However, the official says, any change in the examinations format and syllabus would not become effective before 2007.

For 2006 CSS exams the current examination system would be followed. The system is a blend of subjective and objective questions. Objective questions form 10-15 per cent of the total marks in a particular subject.

The next exams would be held in May 2006. Till this year the examinations were held in October/November.

FPSC has already taken a number of other steps to bring reforms in the recruitment process. The most significant among them is the reduction in the time span of the examinations.

The project is being undertaken as part of the World Bank sponsored civil services reforms. An integral part of these reforms is the reform of the FPSC and the competitive examinations.