The Punjab government has announced a major reform for students appearing in the 2026 Matriculation and Intermediate examinations by introducing digital biometric attendance verification at examination centres. Under the new system, students will be required to verify their identity through biometric checks before entering exam halls.
The decision was finalised during a high-level meeting at the Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education (BISE) Lahore, where senior education officials reviewed wide-ranging measures to modernise the examination system. The meeting was chaired by Muzammil Mehmood, Chairman of the Task Force Committee on Boards.
New System to Prevent Fake Candidates
Officials said biometric verification will ensure that only registered candidates are allowed to appear in board exams. Students’ identities will be digitally verified at centres, effectively blocking impersonation and fake entries. Authorities believe this move will significantly improve transparency and fairness in the examination process.
In addition, officials discussed reforms to address long-standing issues in the practical examination system. Complaints of unfair marking, favouritism, and weak supervision have been common in previous years. Under the new proposals, practical exams will be conducted and evaluated with stricter oversight and standardised assessment criteria.
CCTV Monitoring and Digital Marking System Planned
To strengthen monitoring, the installation of CCTV cameras in laboratories during practical exams has been proposed. Video surveillance is expected to reduce cheating, external interference, and the misuse of personal connections.
A digital marking system is also under consideration, under which both theory and practical marks will be entered electronically. Officials say this will help prevent tampering, minimise human error, and speed up result processing.
Higher Pay for Staff and Zero-Tolerance Policy
The meeting also discussed increasing compensation for examination supervisors and staff to reduce vulnerability to pressure and encourage honest performance. Task Force Chairman Muzammil Mehmood warned that strict legal action will be taken against anyone found attempting to manipulate results through bribery or political influence.
Education officials believe these reforms will bring relief to hardworking students who were previously disadvantaged. With biometric verification, digital monitoring, and stricter evaluation, the 2026 exam cycle is expected to mark a new era of transparency and credibility in Punjab’s education system.
Meanwhile, Lahore BISE spokesperson Tahir Javed said detailed technical guidelines and implementation plans will be shared with schools and examination centres well before the start of the examination season.
