Analysis of Problems and Challenges of Secondary Schools Head Teachers of Conducting Punjab Examination Commission Exams in Pakistan

Abstract

The examinations are a compulsory part of the education system and are conducted under certain processes and protocols. The Punjab Examination Commission (PEC) was established by the government of Punjab to administer mandatory examinations for 5th and 8th grade (elementary level examination) in Punjab, Pakistan, which is managed by the government. The PEC is an examining body, but it has no staff or infrastructure, although exam is conducted by the districts under the supervision of the PEC, mostly in secondary schools. So, a study was conducted to explore the challenges and problems faced by heads in conducting PEC exams. The secondary school heads are accountable for the class’s quality education and the results of secondary-level grades. It employed a descriptive, survey-based research approach targeting head teachers, resident inspectors, superintendents, and teachers in Khanewal, Lodhran, Multan, and Muzaffargarh Districts of Punjab province. Mix methodology data collection processes were used through quantitative (questionnaire survey with 100 respondents) and qualitative (semi-structured Interview with 12 respondents) methods were utilized. The findings from both surveys aligned with the study and highlighted issues such as staff shortages, space constraints, student and staff indiscipline, lack of training, capacity building, logistical challenges, security and safety concerns, and time management conflicts with secondary class schedules. Despite these challenges, respondents generally praised the transparency of the PEC exams. Suggestions for improvement included consolidating exam centers within schools, altering exam timing to keep class timings in view to remove space constraints, decentralizing the exam process, enhancing staff training, and increasing honoraria. The study advocates for further research to enhance the examination system's effectiveness.