ISLAMABAD (Kashmir English): The Federal Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education (FBISE) has announced the postponement of matric exams in Iran and three Gulf countries, citing security concerns and regional instability.
The official notification states that all exams that were planned to take place in Iran, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, and Bahrain will be postponed until further notice, and all roll number slips for these locations will be put on hold.
The Federal Board confirmed that students will take their matric exams at overseas centers according to the established timetable, which they already disclosed.
The authorities are examining different methods that will enable students who have been affected by this situation to complete their exams either in Pakistan or in neighboring countries.
The statement added that if logistical challenges arise at any foreign exam center, students will receive alternative solutions that will safeguard their exam experience.
The board announced that they will conduct a review of this decision after 15 days, and they will disclose new test dates if the security situation improves. The remaining exams will be conducted according to their initial timetable when conditions return to normal.
School Holidays Extended
The Punjab government is forming new energy-saving measures because the fuel crisis has intensified due to global supply chain problems. Officials are assessing various solutions, which include extending school holidays and reducing market operating hours as ways to better manage the current situation.
The Punjab Energy Department has presented a complete set of recommendations to provincial authorities, according to sources. The department recommends implementing fuel rationing measures that match the federal proposals because Pakistan needs to handle rising petroleum prices and decreasing supplies, which result from ongoing Middle Eastern conflicts and blocked key oil transportation routes, especially through the Strait of Hormuz.
The main proposal recommends extending school holidays until April 15. The authorities are working on a new educational system that will combine in-person and remote learning methods to decrease total energy consumption.
The schools will stay closed until March 31, according to current plans. The officials propose establishing a digital or coupon-based rationing system to guarantee equitable fuel distribution. The proposal includes restricting vehicle fuel access on specific days to support wider energy conservation programs.
