KARACHI: Sindh Chief Secretary Asif Hyder Shah on Thursday visited different examination centres for matric students and expressed his utter dissatisfaction over mismanagement and arrangements made by the Board of Secondary Education (BSEK).

At some examination centres, the situation was so bad that the chief secretary summoned not only the BSEK chairman but some other key officials and directed them to take immediate measures to address issues.

The chief secretary’s visit came against the backdrop of numerous complaints regarding late distribution of question papers, cheating, the agonising situation for candidates at so many examination centres, where either there was no electricity or even if there was, there were no electric appliances and no provision of clean drinking water or even toilet facilities.

Accompanied by Karachi Commissioner Hasan Naqvi, the chief secretary visited an examination centre at the Government Boys High School 3, Jahangir Road, where he found out that the exams were delayed due to late arrival and distribution of the questions papers.

Asks BSEK chairman to take steps to ensure fairness, transparency in conduct of matric examinations

At another examination centre in Mehmoodabad, he found unauthorised individuals present despite Section 144 of the criminal procedure code being in effect.

He also visited the Sindhi Muslim Boys School to assess the situation there.

Interacting with students, he sought their feedback and addressed their concerns, reaffirming the government’s commitment to ensuring a conducive examination environment, said a press release issued here.

In an effort to oversee the smooth conduct of examinations, he signalled the need for stricter enforcement of regulations to maintain the integrity of the examination process.

He emphasised the importance of cleanliness and the provision of clean drinking water at examination centres, instructing the principal of the school, where he had noticed that problem, accordingly.

Later, the chief secretary conducted a meeting with the secretaries of the universities and boards, school education and colleges departments, BSEK chairman and controller of examination.

He expressed his utter dissatisfaction over the mismanagement observed and pushed for immediate corrective measures to address the problems.

During the meeting, the chief secretary emphasised the importance of maintaining order and integrity throughout the examination process.

He directed the officials to take necessary measures to prevent any disruptions or irregularities that could affect the fairness and transparency of the examinations, which calls for implementing strict security measures, ensuring proper logistics and addressing any potential challenges or concerns that may arise during the examination period.

Published in Dawn, May 10th, 2024