Allama Iqbal university launches inquiry after embarrassing question in matric paper

Students were required to ‘describe age, physique and looks’ of their elder sisters

ISLAMABAD: The Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU) has launched an inquiry to find out how an “embarrassing question” found its way into the English language paper in recently-held exams.

Functional English paper of matric level carried a question requiring students to describe the personality of their elder sisters in terms of age, physique, height, looks and attitude.

The exam was held a few days ago. However, the university ordered an inquiry into the matter after an image of the question paper went viral on social media.

The exam paper available with The Express Tribune



In a statement, the university termed the question “inappropriate” and said that an inquiry committee had been formed to fix the responsibility. Stern action will be taken in the light of the inquiry committee, it said.

AIOU Vice-Chancellor Dr Shahid Siddiqui has directed the committee to submit its report within a week.



A spokesperson of the university said question was against the norms and values of our society. He said university teachers prepare the question papers.

He said it was not clear how the question paper was set and how it was cleared by the officials concerned. There was no reaction from students in the examination hall and the issue was highlighted later on, the spokesperson added.