Punjab Introduces Biometric Attendance for Matric and Inter Exams

The Board Committee of Chairmen representing all nine educational boards in Punjab has approved sweeping reforms to modernize the matriculation and intermediate examination system.

Biometric Attendance for Students

Under the new policy, biometric attendance will become compulsory for exam candidates. From 2026, students registering in Class 9 and Class 11 will submit thumb impressions during registration.

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These will later be used for identity verification at examination centers.

Role of Schools

Both government and private schools will be responsible for arranging:

• Biometric devices

• Laptops for verification

Examination boards will provide only the required software.

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Shift to Digital Paper Marking

Authorities have ended the traditional manual marking method. Answer sheets will now be scanned and checked digitally on computer screens.

Officials say this system will:

✔ Reduce marking mistakes
✔ Eliminate calculation errors
✔ Improve transparency

Stronger Practical Exams

Science practical exams will now be conducted with proper assessment instead of being treated as a formality.

CCTV Monitoring at Centers

CCTV cameras are now mandatory at examination centers. In Rawalpindi Division alone, 400 centers have been set up, and camera installation has already started.

Phased Implementation

This year, reforms will begin partially, starting with biometric registration of Class 9 and 11 students.

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