KARACHI:
It is often difficult for candidates to prepare for one-paper-based tests that are conducted by the federal and provincial public service commissions for different vacancies. One of the reasons for this is that the commissions announce the syllabus for the tests, but they do not recommend appropriate course books for preparation. The syllabus includes topics as vast as general knowledge, Pakistan studies, and current affairs. To overcome this obstacle, students purchase various books to prepare for the examinations. Yet they cannot cram everything because much of the time, the examination questions are sourced from several books.
In addition, students refer to MCQs websites to prepare for one-paper-based tests. However, there is no certainty that questions will be repeated in the examination. There are several tutoring academies that offer services for the preparation of the exams. However, most students cannot afford their services. One solution for this could be that the federal and provincial public service commissions should prepare or recommend coursebooks for the preparation of one-paper-based tests. This will ensure that all candidates have an equal opportunity when competing for the post. It will help eliminate education inequality amongst provinces as candidates belonging to various backgrounds and classes can compete on an equal footing. If appropriate coursebooks are recommended students will be able to prepare for the exam and undertake it confidently.
Naif Memon
Hyderabad
Published in The Express Tribune, September 16th, 2021.
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