The Punjab School Education Board has come under sharp criticism after announcing changes to the examination pattern for Class 10 and Class 12 board exams just weeks before the examinations. The decision has raised concerns among students, teachers, and education experts across the state. Stakeholders have described the move as unfair, citing lack of preparation time and increased academic pressure on candidates appearing in the 2026 board examinations.
PSEB Revises Question Paper Structure and Difficulty Level
According to the revised pattern, the Board has shifted focus towards competency-based and analytical assessment. The proportion of multiple-choice questions has been reduced significantly, indicating a move away from objective testing. Under the new format:
- MCQs have been reduced from 40% to 25%
- Difficult questions increased from 20% to 30%
- At least 25% questions will test in-depth understanding from within chapters
The revised structure is aimed at assessing conceptual clarity and higher-order thinking skills rather than rote learning.
Teachers and Students Question Timing of Decision
While the Board has stated that the changes are intended to improve learning outcomes, the timing of the announcement has drawn widespread criticism. Teachers argue that the revised pattern was communicated just before winter vacations, leaving students with minimal guidance or classroom support. With schools reopening in mid-January, followed by pre-board examinations and practical exams starting from 2 February 2026, educators say students are left with little time to adapt to the new format.
Demand to Implement Changes From Next Academic Session
Educationists and student groups have urged the Board to continue with the existing exam pattern for the current academic year. They have demanded that any major assessment changes should be introduced from the next session to allow adequate preparation time. Teachers have stressed that abrupt changes at such a critical stage may adversely impact performance and increase exam-related stress among students. As of now, the Punjab School Education Board has not issued any clarification on whether the revised pattern will be deferred.