Shafqat Mehmoood says no promotion this year without exams

ISLAMABAD: Federal Education Minister Shafqat Mehmood on Sunday clarified that the students would not be promoted to the next classes without examination this year.

“We are taking all possible measures to protect children of educational institutions from the second wave of coronavirus,” he stated while talking to a private television channel.

Last time, the federal and provincial governments had to take the decision regarding promotion of school children to next grade on the basis of previous academic record, he said and added that this time, participation in exams would be a must.

About reopening of schools and colleges, he said the decision would be taken after consulting provincial governments as the second wave of coronavirus was still threatening to people’s health.

In reply to a question about primary schools, Shafqat Mehmood said the children of low-grade schooling had affected due to closure of institutions. “We are seriously contemplating a plan to reopen schools for children,“ he stated.

However, he said, all standard operating procedures (SOPs) would be followed after the opening of educational institutions in the country.

As far as secondary and higher board exams were concerned, he said a little change in holding exams would be made so that students could prepare for better results.

The federal minister said the incumbent government had launched tele-schooling and radio-schooling for continuing educational activities across the country.

About vaccination criteria, he said health and educational workers would be given priority.

He further stated that a comprehensive strategy would be evolved after detailed consultation with quarters concerned.