The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) education department is overhauling its examination system, replacing the British-era annual exams with a two-term structure for students up to grade 8. Officials said the shift is designed to ease pressure on students and teachers while improving consistency in learning.
The department confirmed that Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur has approved the change. Education secretary Mohammad Khalid said the syllabus will now be divided into two equal portions, with exams at the end of each semester. Both scores will count towards the final grade.
One major reason for the change is the lack of seriousness shown towards mid-term assessments, which do not currently affect annual results. Officials believe the new structure will ensure students stay engaged throughout the year.
The initiative also focuses on reducing the physical burden of schooling. Each semester will have its own textbooks, which are expected to lighten school bags. Khalid said parents have frequently complained about the weight of books affecting children’s health.
To make vacations more meaningful, exams will be scheduled before breaks. Students will then be free to join co-curricular and vocational activities. Plans include digital training, technical skill-building, and summer plantation campaigns.
The academic calendar will differ for summer and winter zones to suit local weather. Schools in summer areas will begin the year on September 1, with semesters running from September to December and January to May. Winter areas will start on March 1, with terms from March to June and August to December.