The Chairman of the Board of Secondary Education (BSE) Karachi has issued new directives for the upcoming Class 9 and 10 examinations, instructing that female students must not be asked to remove their abaya or burqa at any exam centres.
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According to official guidelines issued by Chairman Ghulam Hussain, no complaints of cheating have been received from female examination centres, and therefore there is no justification for imposing additional dress-related checks on students. He emphasized that all exam centres must strictly respect the privacy and dignity of candidates.
The directive clearly states that female students appearing in matric examinations should not be required to remove their religious or cultural attire, including burqa and abaya, during entry or inspection procedures. The chairman warned that strict action would be taken against any examination centre found violating these instructions.
In another key instruction, the board announced that male invigilators should not be appointed at examination centres designated for female students. The move is aimed at ensuring a comfortable and secure environment for candidates during the examination process.
Officials said the decision reflects efforts to balance examination security with respect for cultural and religious sensitivities. The board reiterated that maintaining discipline and fairness in examinations remains a top priority, but it must not come at the cost of students’ dignity.
The new guidelines have been circulated to all examination centres across Karachi ahead of the matriculation exams. Authorities have been instructed to ensure strict compliance to avoid any complaints or disciplinary action.
Education observers say the decision may help reduce anxiety among students and promote a more inclusive examination environment, particularly for female candidates. The board has also urged centre administrators to resolve any issues immediately and report violations without delay.
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The upcoming examinations are expected to be conducted under strict monitoring, with the board emphasizing transparency, fairness, and respect for students’ rights.