184th IBCC Forum Concludes With Major Changes to Exam System
ISLAMABAD, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 5th Sep, 2026) The 184th meeting of the Inter Boards Coordination Commission (IBCC) Forum concluded in Murree with key decisions aimed at standardizing examination practices across Pakistan. These reforms focus on:
- Shifting assessment from rote learning to conceptual understanding.
- Enhancing transparency in student records.
- Improving national and international recognition of Pakistani qualifications.
Key Outcomes:
The two-day forum brought together chairpersons of Boards of Intermediate and Secondary Education (BISEs), technical education boards, and senior representatives of curriculum and textbook boards nationwide. They discussed examination reforms and adopted common measures for a more uniform and credible assessment system, in line with the prime minister's directives.
- Grading Policy: Examination boards in Sindh, the Federal Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education (FBISE), AJK Board, KIU Board, Aga Khan Board, and Ziauddin Board have implemented a new grading policy raising the minimum passing marks to 40%. Awareness sessions will be organized nationwide for its implementation.
- Academic Record Transparency: The forum agreed to include B Form/CNIC numbers on SSC and HSSC certificates for easier identification, access, and verification of student records.
- Scholarships and Exposure: Scholarships and overseas exposure opportunities were approved for toppers from various boards. IBCC will organize winter and summer camps for high-achieving students.
- Equivalence Framework: 12 more Deeni Madaris will be granted equivalence for their qualifications with SSC and HSSC, bringing the total covered institutions to 26.
- Science Group Equivalence: The forum allowed Science Group equivalence to foreign examination board students who have passed at least two science subjects, providing more academic flexibility.
- Examination Calendar: A uniform calendar for theory and practical examinations was recommended, along with common guidelines for fairness and transparency.
BISE Kohat, BISE Quetta, and FBISE shared their best practices and innovative initiatives for potential adoption by other boards. National Coordinator IBCC Forum, Mr. Inayatullah Waseem, emphasized the need for active participation and collective ownership of these examination reforms.