Board results expose education challenges

Over 157,000 students fail in class 9 exams

LAHORE:

Annual Class 9 examination results announced by the Lahore Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education (BISE) have shown that more than 157,000 students have failed.

Educationists say the figure raises questions about the performance of the education system and the private and government institutions responsible for preparing students for the examinations.

According to the results announced by the BISE, 287,676 candidates appeared in the examinations, of whom 130,543 passed, showing a 46.51 per cent rate of success.

Thus nearly 54% candidates were unable to pass.

The outcome has alarmed parents, teachers and education specialists.

An expert argued that when more than half of the candidates failed, the issue extended beyond individual performance and pointed to systemic weaknesses.

Critics argue that year after year, official claims highlight reforms, improved enrollment, digital initiatives and teacher training programmes. However, the results have led to questions whether these initiatives are translating into improvements in classroom learning.

"The failure of a huge number of students warrants a comprehensive review of policies and their implementation," said a senior official of Punjab School Education Department.

Teachers identify weak conceptual learning, overcrowded classrooms, inconsistent teaching standards, teacher shortages in some schools and inadequate academic monitoring as major factors. They also point to learning gaps that develop during earlier grades and become more visible when students reach the secondary education level.

A parent said students should not need expensive coaching centres to pass examinations.

Education experts said English, mathematics and science continued to be among the most challenging subjects for many students, highlighting the importance of stronger foundational learning.