THE recently declared result of Provincial Planning Services (PPS) cadre has raised many questions about the credibility of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Public Service Commission (KPPSC). Many candidates, myself included, who secured good marks in the written examination have been awarded zero marks out of 50 in the interview. Does that make any sense at all?

I possess a higher degree (MS) than the required qualification and have four-year relevant professional experience in the development sector. I have previously got good marks in the interview in all my previous appearances in the KPPSC, and have topped one of the lists. Had I been given only passing marks in the interview, I, and many others, would have made the cut without any difficulty.

On the other hand, some candidates, who have got comparatively less marks in the written examination, were given 35-45 marks in the interview out of 50.

The aspirants work hard to prepare for competitive examinations in order to get a respectable job. They expect to be treated judiciously and justly without any undue favour being given to the fellows in competition.

The careless marking criteria certainly dishearten many aspiring candidates who question the credibility of the KPPSC. The top officials of the KPPSC must be held answerable for the abrupt marking system of awarding zero to high-scoring candidates and awarding 35-40 marks to the low-scoring candidates. The higher authorities should also take notice of this practice.

Name withheld on request
Peshawar

Published in Dawn, February 11th, 2023