The Sindh Assembly’s Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has raised serious concerns over the financial and operational transparency of seven school boards in the province. Allegations of financial irregularities and unclear performance metrics have prompted the PAC to call for a special audit. This audit will scrutinize financial expenditures, discrepancies, and grading processes from 2022 to 2024, with completion expected within four months.
PAC Meeting Highlights Concerns
The PAC convened on Tuesday in the Sindh Assembly’s committee room, chaired by Nisar Khuhro. Committee members Sadia Javed, Khurram Karim Soomro, and Javed attended, alongside key officials like Abbas Baloch, Secretary of Universities and Boards, and education board chairmen. The meeting focused on addressing financial misconduct and operational inefficiencies within the boards, emphasizing the need for accountability.
Allegations of Financial Misconduct
The committee highlighted multiple instances of financial mismanagement within the school boards. Chairman Khuhro expressed disapproval of their functioning, citing concerns over potential manipulation of exam results. He emphasized that such practices undermine the credibility of the education system and called for immediate corrective measures to restore public trust in the boards’ operations.
Exam Result Manipulation Under Scrutiny
Khuhro raised alarms over allegations of “paying for marks,” where students reportedly received A+ grades in exchange for money. He warned that such practices harm students’ academic integrity, as they struggle in entry tests despite high board scores. This manipulation not only compromises education quality but also questions the reliability of examination systems.
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Impact on Free Education Initiatives
Despite the Sindh government’s efforts to provide free education up to the intermediate level, the alleged malpractices have tarnished the initiative’s success. Khuhro noted that the government spends Rs2 billion annually on exam fees, yet the boards’ credibility remains under scrutiny. He stressed the need for transparency to ensure that public funds are utilized effectively.
Call for Strict Oversight and Accountability
Khuhro reiterated the committee’s commitment to maintaining educational standards, emphasizing that the youth’s future is at stake. He drew parallels to the special audit of Gorakh Hill, vowing to enforce similar transparency measures for education boards. The PAC aims to ensure that accountability is upheld and that any irregularities are addressed promptly.
Case of BIEK Chairman’s Removal
PAC member Khurram Karim Soomro highlighted the case of Amir Qadri, former chairman of the Board of Intermediate Education Karachi (BIEK), who was removed over allegations of manipulating first-year results. Soomro demanded updates on the investigation and clarity on grading processes. This case underscores the need for stricter oversight to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Need for Transparent Grading Processes
The committee emphasized the importance of transparent grading systems to maintain the integrity of examinations. Soomro called for detailed explanations of how grades are awarded and urged the boards to adopt standardized practices. This move aims to eliminate discrepancies and ensure fair evaluation for all students.
Financial Audit to Uncover Irregularities
The special audit will focus on uncovering financial irregularities within the boards. It will examine expenditures, identify discrepancies, and assess the allocation of resources. The findings are expected to provide a clear picture of the boards’ financial health and highlight areas requiring immediate improvement.
Restoring Public Trust in Education Boards
The PAC’s decision to conduct a special audit reflects its commitment to restoring public trust in the education system. By addressing financial and operational inefficiencies, the committee aims to create a more transparent and accountable framework. This initiative is crucial for ensuring that students receive a fair and quality education.
Conclusion
The special audit of Sindh’s education boards marks a significant step toward addressing long-standing issues in the province’s education system. By holding boards accountable and enforcing transparency, the PAC aims to safeguard students’ futures and uphold the integrity of examinations. This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to educational reform and its resolve to eliminate malpractices.
