In view of the ongoing ninth and tenth class examinations, Karachi Matric Board Chairman Ghulam Hussain has issued directives to examination centers regarding female students.
According to the instructions, female students appearing for the examination must not remove their burqas or abayas at any examination centre.
The Chairperson stated that no complaints of cheating involving female candidates have been received; such measures are unnecessary.
He further warned that strict action would be taken if there is an exam center that forces female students to remove their burqa or abaya during exams.
The chairman also ordered that no male supervisors should be appointed at examination centers intended for female students.
The annual exams for class 9 and 10 students began across the city on Friday. As many as 385,000 students appear for the exam.
The authorities have promised strict monitoring. Section 144 has been imposed around examination centers to maintain order, mobile phones are completely banned and even nearby photostat shops remain closed to prevent any chance of cheating.
However, the matriculation exams have been mired in controversy, with widespread allegations of paper leaks, bribery and serious administrative failures disrupting students’ ability to take the exams fairly.
