Sindh introduces e-marking system for Matric exams from 2026

The Sindh Government has decided to introduce a modern watermarking system in exams to prevent cheating. In Karachi, all 9th-grade papers and only 2 matric papers will be conducted using e-marking.

The decision was taken to ensure transparency and reduce malpractice in exams. A high-level meeting chaired by the Provincial Minister for Universities and Educational Boards, Muhammad Ismail Rahu, reviewed preparations for the new academic year exams.

Minister Rahu announced that the new watermarking system will allow authorities to quickly trace any paper leak back to the responsible person or center.

Under the new system, Sukkur and Shaheed Benazirabad divisions will conduct all exams via e-marking, while the Larkana Board will use e-marking for 8 papers from 9th to 12th grades. In Karachi, only 2 matric papers and all 9th-grade papers will use e-marking for now.

He said that, given the current situation, exams across Sindh will be held on their scheduled dates. From April 7, around 1,353,258 students from 9th to 12th grade will take exams at over 1,600 centers across the province.

In Karachi, 11th and 12th-grade exams will start on April 25, while 9th and 10th grades will begin on April 7. In Sukkur Division, 9th and 10th grades start March 30, and 11th and 12th grades start April 15.

The minister also announced strict rules: no mobile phones will be allowed in exam centers, and Section 144 will be enforced. He instructed authorities to ensure clean drinking water, furniture, and electricity at all centers.

Special letters have been sent to K-Electric, HESCO, and SEPCO to avoid load shedding during exams. A provincial complaint cell has also been set up at the Secretary Boards office for quick issue resolution.

Minister Rahu warned that if any paper is leaked, strict disciplinary action will be taken against the responsible board chairman.

The meeting was attended by Secretary Universities Abbas Baloch and all chairmen of educational boards.