ISLAMABAD: The National Assembly Standing Committee on Federal Education, Professional Training, National Heritage and Culture has raised concerns over the absence of formal agreements between Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) and the Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training.
The committee emphasized that under the provisions of the IBCC Act 2023, all international examination boards are now required to formally register with the Inter-Board Committee of Chairmen (IBCC) and comply with its standardized regulatory framework. The committee meeting, chaired by Dr Azimuddin Zahid Lakhvi, was held at the Parliament House. The committee approved various legislative proposals on its agenda including the Orbit Institute of Management and Technology Bill, 2025, the Al-Biruni International University Bill, 2025, the Wah Institute of Modern Sciences, Wah Cantt Bill, 2025 and the Rawal International University, Islamabad Bill, 2025.
The committee recommended that Cambridge International Examinations ensure full compliance with national laws and regulations, particularly the IBCC Act 2023. The committee reviewed a comprehensive report submitted by its specially-constituted Subcommittee on Cambridge Examination Leaks. The report presented a detailed analysis of the recent paper leaks and included actionable policy recommendations aimed at strengthening regulatory oversight of foreign examination systems. The committee reiterated the urgent need to establish a robust regulatory framework for overseeing all foreign examination boards operating in Pakistan, including Cambridge International Examinations.
In response to the June 2025 exam paper leaks, Cambridge International Education has offered free resits in November 2025 for students affected by the three compromised papers. These resits are optional, and schools will receive entry instructions following the release of June exam results.
The committee expressed concern over the prolonged vacancy of the director general post at the Federal Directorate of Education (FDE). It said this leadership vacuum has adversely affected the operational efficiency and decision-making capacity of the institution, leading to unresolved challenges in affiliated schools and colleges. Moreover, the committee voiced concerns over the unauthorized occupation of several buildings belonging to the Directorate General of Special Education (DGSE) by institutions including the Pakistan Institute of Education and Research Authority, the Federal Medical and Dental College, and Pakistan Bait-ul-Maal. These facilities were specifically constructed to serve children with special needs. The committee condemned the occupation, stating that it has severely hindered the DGSE’s ability to provide essential educational and rehabilitation services. It called for immediate evacuation of all occupied premises.
Highlighting the humanitarian aspect of the issue, the committee noted that the continued occupation constitutes a grave injustice to differently-abled children. It directed the Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training to urgently address this matter. Reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding the rights of children with special needs, the committee assured the DGSE of its full support in fulfilling its important mission.
