BISE Lahore Overhauls Exam System with Centralized Marking and E-Marking

Lahore, Pakistan – The Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education (BISE) Lahore has announced significant reforms to its examination procedures, aiming to improve transparency and curb irregularities. The changes include centralized marking for 9th-grade practical exams and the implementation of an e-marking system for theory papers.

Addressing Past Issues

The reforms were prompted by numerous complaints regarding mismanagement and potential misuse of marks in practical examinations. Previously, examiners had full discretion over the allocation of marks, leading to concerns about fairness. BISE Secretary Rizwan Nazir explained that this system allowed for “widespread misuse,” which the board is now working to eliminate (Geo.tv).

Centralized Practical Exam Marking

To address these concerns, BISE Lahore is introducing centralized marking for 9th-grade practical exams. This means assessments will be conducted and evaluated under a more controlled and standardized process. CCTV cameras will be installed in laboratories to ensure the integrity of the assessments, and practical evaluations will be a mandatory component of students’ overall grades (Dunya News).

E-Marking for Theory Papers

In addition to changes in practical exam procedures, BISE Lahore is also launching an e-marking system for theory papers. Students will now answer questions on “e-sheets” which will then be scanned and digitized. Examiners will receive secure IDs to mark scripts remotely, monitored in real-time via webcams (Geo.tv).

Improved Efficiency and Accuracy

The new system aims to improve both the accuracy and efficiency of the marking process. Instead of a single examiner handling hundreds of complete scripts, marking will be divided into smaller batches of questions. This approach is expected to reduce errors and ensure a more thorough evaluation of student work (Geo.tv).

Implementation and Expansion

The e-marking system will debut with the ICS first annual examinations across Punjab this year. BISE Lahore plans to gradually expand e-marking to all subjects over the next two to three years (Geo.tv). The reforms were directed by Punjab Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat to restore fairness and credibility in the examination system (Dunya News).