New exam dates to be announced soon by Punjab education boards.

Punjab Postpones Matric and Intermediate Exams

The Punjab government has announced that matriculation and intermediate board exams will now be held after the month of Ramadan, providing students with additional preparation time. Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat made the announcement in Lahore on Wednesday, stressing that the decision was taken solely for the convenience of students across the province.

Rana Sikandar highlighted the challenges faced by hundreds of thousands of students who would otherwise be preparing for exams during the fasting month. “This shift in schedule aims to reduce academic stress and allow students to focus on both their studies and religious obligations,” he said.

Previously, matric exams were scheduled to begin on March 3, 2026, and intermediate exams on May 5. The education department has instructed all boards in Punjab to restructure their schedules accordingly, and new exam dates will be announced soon.

 Balancing Academics and Religious Observances

While postponing exams may provide much-needed relief for students observing Ramadan, it also raises logistical challenges for the education boards, including rescheduling, exam supervision, and result timelines. Some critics argue that shifting the exams could impact the academic calendar and preparations for higher education admissions. However, the decision underscores the government’s sensitivity to student well-being, acknowledging the importance of accommodating religious practices while maintaining academic standards.