Karachi board bans removal of abayas at girls’ exam centres

The Board of Secondary Education Karachi (BSEK) has issued clear instructions to all examination centres in Karachi, stating that female students must not be asked to remove their abayas or veils during matric examinations.

The directive was announced by Chairman Ghulam Hussain Sohoo following complaints from students about being asked to remove their coverings at some centres. 

According to the 24NewsHD TV channel, the board chairman said no such practice of removal of abayas would be allowed and warned that strict action would be taken against any violation.

Chairman Sohoo stated that wearing an abaya or veil along with the school uniform is part of cultural and religious values and must be respected. 

The board chairman added that there had been no complaints of cheating from girls’ examination centres, making such measures unnecessary.

Sohoo further assured that no male invigilators would be deployed at centres designated for female candidates. 

He emphasised that the dignity and respect of students would not be compromised under any circumstances.

The chairman said that any report of mistreatment or undue pressure on females would be dealt with firmly, stressing that safeguarding students’ rights remained a priority during the examination process.

The Board of Secondary Education Karachi, established in 1950, is responsible for organising and regulating secondary school examinations in the city, including matriculation exams for classes nine and ten.

The announcement comes amid ongoing examinations across Karachi, with authorities seeking to ensure a fair and respectful environment for all matriculation candidates.

Reporter: Zubair Rashid