The Karachi Matric Board has issued an important clarification regarding female students’ dress code during the ongoing ninth and tenth class examinations. Chairman Ghulam Hussain announced that students will not be required to remove burqas or abayas at any examination centre, addressing concerns raised during the exam period.
According to the official directive, female candidates can comfortably appear in exams while maintaining their religious attire. The chairman emphasized that there have been no confirmed cheating cases involving female students, making such restrictions unnecessary and inappropriate.
He also issued a strict warning to all examination centres, stating that any staff found forcing students to remove their burqa or abaya will face serious disciplinary action. This move aims to protect students’ dignity and ensure a respectful examination environment.
In addition, the board has directed that no male invigilators should be assigned to centres designated for female candidates. This step is intended to provide a secure and comfortable atmosphere for students during their exams.
The annual matric examinations, which began last week across Karachi, are being attended by approximately 385,000 students. Authorities have implemented strict security measures to maintain fairness and discipline. These include the enforcement of Section 144 around exam centres, a complete ban on mobile phones, and the closure of nearby photostat shops to prevent any unfair practices.
Despite these precautions, the examination process has faced serious criticism. Reports of paper leaks, bribery, and administrative mismanagement have sparked widespread concern among students and parents. Many fear that these issues could undermine the credibility of the examination system.
The latest directive by the Karachi Matric Board reflects an effort to balance discipline with student rights, ensuring that exams are conducted fairly while respecting cultural and religious values
