Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education (BISEM) Mardan Chairman Jahanzeb Khan has defended his decision to reschedule the SSC practical exam schedule for Fazl-e-Haq College, Mardan, clarifying that the step was taken in response to logistical constraints faced by the residential institution.
Originally, the practical exams were set to begin on May 2. However, following a formal written request from the school’s headmaster, Ejaz Ahmad Khan, the SSC practical exam schedule for the college was adjusted, and exams were conducted earlier on April 29. This administrative decision sparked a wave of criticism on social media, with some users questioning the chairman’s discretion.
Addressing the controversy, Chairman Jahanzeb Khan explained that Fazl-e-Haq College had submitted a legitimate request due to space constraints. The application stated that the institution, which houses both Matric and Intermediate students in its boarding facilities, was struggling to accommodate students effectively as the Intermediate examinations are due to commence on May 7. New admissions for junior classes had further intensified the pressure on boarding resources.
The college’s letter emphasized that the Matriculation written exams were scheduled to conclude on April 28. To ease congestion and ensure a smooth transition for incoming Intermediate candidates, the institution requested an immediate start to practical exams. This arrangement would enable Matric students to leave the boarding houses promptly, freeing up accommodation for other exam-takers.
Jahanzeb Khan reiterated that the board acted within its authority to support educational institutions, especially residential ones, by accommodating their operational challenges. “I exercised my discretion in good faith and within the rules to adjust the SSC practical exam schedule, keeping student welfare and academic continuity in mind,” he concluded.
