What was introduced as a major technological upgrade for Karachi’s matric examination system has reportedly ended in administrative confusion and financial losses.
In a latest development, the Karachi Secondary Education Board has reportedly decided to step back from its planned e-marking project for 2026 examinations.
According to media reports, nearly 175,000 matric students are now expected to have their Class X examination papers checked manually instead of through the digital assessment system originally planned for mathematics and computer science subjects.
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The decision reportedly came after serious operational failures surfaced within the board following the resignation of former chairman Muhammad Hussain Sohu amid corruption allegations and an inquiry into alleged irregularities.
Rs25 Million Answer Sheets May Go Unused
Media reports claimed the board had already printed special answer sheets worth nearly Rs25 million specifically designed for scanning and digital marking.
Unlike traditional examination copies, the customized papers reportedly cost between Rs70 and Rs80 per sheet compared to the standard Rs28 to Rs30 answer copies normally used in examinations.
Reports further suggested that over 350,000 specially designed answer sheets had been printed for two Class X subjects, but the papers are now likely to be checked manually because the e-marking system was never fully implemented.
Software worth Rs 18 Million ‘Purchased’ But Not Properly Tested
According to reports, the controversy deepened after the appointment of a new acting chairman, when it allegedly emerged that the IT company hired for the project had not been fully engaged to operate or test the software despite around Rs18 million reportedly being spent on its purchase.
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The situation was reportedly worsened by the absence of formal teacher training sessions for digital assessment.
Examiners responsible for checking papers allegedly received no practical guidance on operating the software or using digital marking tools, making implementation difficult within the examination timeline.
Class IX E-Marking Plan Under Consideration
Media reports stated that authorities are now considering introducing e-marking gradually for all Class IX subjects instead, beginning with teacher training workshops and phased implementation.
However, officials reportedly concluded that launching digital marking for Class X this year was no longer practical due to the June 30 matric result deadline and the shortage of trained examiners.
Meanwhile, despite recommendations in an inquiry report seeking the removal of the board’s controller of examinations, reports claim no official notification has yet been issued even after approval from the provincial minister for universities and boards.
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The Karachi Secondary Education Board had introduced the e-marking initiative as part of broader efforts to modernize examination systems, reduce human error, and improve transparency in paper checking.
However, the latest developments have raised concerns over planning, implementation, accountability, and public spending within the education sector.
