Punjab Introduces On-Screen Marking System for Board Exams. Punjab has announced a major change in how board examinations will be checked. From next year, the traditional manual paper checking system will be replaced with on-screen marking. This change will apply to students appearing in board exams under the Boards of Intermediate and Secondary Education (BISE).
The decision has been taken to make the examination system faster, more transparent, and free from long-standing issues.
What Is On-Screen Marking?
On-screen marking means that examiners will check answer sheets digitally on computers instead of using physical paper copies. Students’ answer sheets will be scanned and uploaded to a secure system where trained examiners will mark them online.
This system is already used in many countries and is considered more accurate and efficient than manual checking.
Computer Science Chosen as Pilot Subject
Punjab education authorities have decided to start this system with Computer Science. Officials explained that this subject was selected because:
- It has more objective and structured answers
- It suits digital checking methods
- It allows easier monitoring of marking quality
If the pilot phase is successful, the system will later be expanded to other subjects.
Official Announcement and Leadership
The reform was announced by Muzammil Mahmood, Chairman of the Chief Minister’s Task Force on Boards. He shared the details during a briefing attended by senior education administrators.
According to officials, this change is part of a larger education reform plan in Punjab.
Why Punjab Is Changing the Marking System
Education officials highlighted several reasons behind this decision:
- To reduce delays in result announcements
- To stop favoritism and irregularities in paper checking
- To ensure uniform marking standards across all boards
- To increase trust and transparency in board exams
Many students and parents have complained for years about slow results and marking errors. Authorities believe on-screen marking will address these concerns.
Part of a Bigger Digitization Plan
The new marking system is not a standalone step. It is part of a broader digitization drive that includes:
- Standardized exam rules across Punjab
- Biometric verification at exam centers
- Improved practical exams based on real skills
- Better data tracking and monitoring systems
Officials say these reforms aim to assess students on actual knowledge and ability, not rote learning.
What This Means for Students
For students, this change can bring several benefits:
- Fair and unbiased checking
- Faster result processing
- Reduced chances of human error
- More confidence in final marks
Students appearing in Computer Science exams next year will be the first to experience this system.
What Happens Next?
Punjab education authorities will finalize technical preparations, examiner training, and system testing before full implementation. More details, including examiner guidelines and student instructions, are expected to be shared closer to the exam season.
Final Thoughts
Punjab’s move to introduce on-screen marking is a significant step toward modernizing education. Starting with Computer Science allows authorities to test the system carefully before expanding it to other subjects.
