Grading reform

The Federal Ministry of Education has taken a significant step by introducing a grade-based system for secondary and higher secondary exams, moving away from traditional numerical scores. In accordance with this, initially students in grade 9 and 11 will be evaluated using a 10-point grading scale, with full implementation expected by 2025.

This new system, with grades ranging from A++ to U, promises to ease the pressure on students and encourage deeper engagement with learning. No longer racing for top positions, students will be expected to concentrate on mastering subjects rather than memorising facts for exams. This shift could help address the country's long-standing problem of rote learning. A uniform grading structure also promises to standardise evaluations across provinces, bringing clarity for universities and employers. Increasing the pass mark from 33% to 40% could push schools to improve teaching quality, raising academic standards nationwide. However, challenges remain. While Sindh has already adopted the policy, other provinces, including Punjab and Balochistan, have yet to follow suit. Delays in implementation could create disparities, leaving some students at a disadvantage. Additionally, teacher training is critical. Without proper guidance on how to assess students under this new system, educators may struggle to apply the reforms effectively. Another concern is that the broad grading categories might dilute recognition for high achievers, raising questions about how exceptional performance will be rewarded.

For this grading reform to truly benefit students, it must be accompanied by improvements in teaching quality, curriculum development and access to resources, especially in rural and underserved areas. The disparity between public and private educational institutions also needs attention, as students from different socioeconomic backgrounds often have vastly different educational experiences. Without fixing the root causes, the move may ultimately fall short of its transformative potential.