EVERY year, intermediate and Cambridge examinations are held during the peak summer months of May and June in Pakistan when temperatures routinely soar past 40°C. In Karachi, the intense heat is further aggravated by high humidity, making conditions even more unbearable. Besides, unpredictable loadshedding leaves students without electricity, depriving them of fans, lights and a comfortable environment both during preparation and, at times, even in examination centres.

Many examination centres, especially where intermediate board exams are conducted, lack proper ventilation or backup power systems and even fans, forcing students to attempt papers while coping with heat exhaustion, dehydration and severe discomfort. This not only affects their concentration, but also pose serious health risks.

Examinations should evaluate students’ academic capabilities, not their ability to withstand extreme weather conditions. It is, therefore, strongly recommended that the authorities reschedule these examinations to February or early spring for the next session when the weather is significantly milder and more suitable for academic activities.

The necessary change would effectively promote fairness, improve student per-formance, and safeguard their wellbeing.

Salman Ali
Karachi

Published in Dawn, June 10th, 2026