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The Peshawar High Court (PHC) has summoned the chairman and controller of examinations of the Peshawar Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education after a Class 9 student was awarded zero marks in the Biology theory paper.
The case involves Abdul Moiz Khan, who challenged the marks awarded in his Biology-I examination. His lawyers told the court that the student had performed strongly in other subjects and had secured 23 out of 25 marks in Biology MCQs and practicals, but received zero in the theory portion.
During the proceedings, the board’s legal representative acknowledged that the Biology paper had been incorrectly processed. According to the explanation presented before the court, examination papers receive computer-generated codes, but the student’s paper was mistakenly assigned another number.
The development prompted serious concern from the bench comprising Justice Ijaz Anwar and Justice Babar Sattar. The court questioned how such an error could affect a student’s academic future and why the problem was discovered only after the matter reached the court.
The court also raised concerns about similar complaints involving errors in examination results. Justice Ijaz Anwar observed that not every student has the resources or legal support needed to challenge an incorrect result before a court.
The PHC has now directed the board to produce the student’s original Biology answer sheet and complete examination record. The chairman and controller of examinations have also been ordered to appear personally at the next hearing.
Meanwhile, the student’s lawyer said the board has reissued the marks sheet, changing the Biology theory score from zero to 65 marks. With the updated marks, the student’s total Biology score has reportedly reached 72 out of 75.
The case has also brought renewed attention to the importance of transparent examination checking, result verification and student grievance procedures. The next hearing is scheduled for September 9, when the court is expected to examine the board’s record and response.