PESHAWAR: The annual higher secondary school certificate (HSSC) examinations commenced on Wednesday across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, including Peshawar, under the supervision of the provincial educational boards.

Strict security arrangements have been put in place for the smooth conduct of exams. Special arrangements have also been made to facilitate candidates in various prisons, allowing students and staff to sit under controlled conditions.

In view of security risks, a total of 495 examination centres across the province have been declared sensitive or highly sensitive. Additional staff and strict monitoring mechanisms have been deployed at these locations.

Officials confirmed that inspections of examination centres had been completed and special measures implemented to ensure the safe transportation and storage of exam papers.

Responsibility for paper security has been assigned to designated staff with strict action promised in case of any leak or irregularity.

Government officials and security personnel were also seen visiting examination centres to review the arrangements and ensure smooth conduct of the examinations.

Published in Dawn, May 7th, 2026