The Education Department has put forward a new proposal to raise the minimum passing marks for students in matriculation (Classes 9 and 10) and intermediate (Classes 11 and 12). Right now, students need to get at least 33% marks to pass their exams. However, if this new plan gets approved, students will need to score at least 40% in each subject to pass. This change is expected to start from the annual exams held in 2026.
The main goal of this proposed policy is to improve the overall quality of education. The Education Department wants to move students away from simply memorizing their lessons (also known as rote learning) and encourage them to understand their subjects better. By focusing more on conceptual learning, students will be better prepared for real-life situations and future studies.
Before the new rule is finalized, it will be discussed with a special committee. This committee includes the heads (chairpersons) of all nine educational boards in the province. Their feedback and suggestions will help shape the final decision.
For now, the current rule of passing with 33% marks will still apply to the 2025 exams. Students will continue to be required to score at least 33% in both theory and practical parts of each subject. But starting from 2026, students will need to get a minimum of 40% in each subject to pass the exam.
There are also a few other important changes included in the proposal. Instead of using the word “Fail” for students who do not pass, the result will now say “Unsatisfactory.” This change is meant to reduce the negative feelings and pressure that come with the word “fail.” Along with this, a new grading system will be introduced to better reflect students’ performance and help raise academic standards.
These changes will be applied across all educational boards in Punjab. This includes boards in cities like Lahore, Faisalabad, Multan, Gujranwala, Sahiwal, Rawalpindi, Bahawalpur, and DG Khan. Every board will follow the same rules to make sure all students are treated equally.
Many teacher associations have shown their support for this new plan. They believe it is a positive step that will push students to work harder and truly understand what they are learning. Teachers say this move will help improve learning outcomes and make the education system stronger for future generations.
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