The results of the recent NED University of Engineering & Technology entrance exam have sent shockwaves through Sindh’s academic circles. Despite achieving A1 grades in intermediate exams, a significant number of students from Sindh’s local education boards failed to qualify for admission. In stark contrast, students from Cambridge International exhibited a remarkable 89% pass rate, once again raising questions about the quality and credibility of local board assessments
NED University: A Premier Engineering Institution
As Sindh’s second-largest engineering university, NED holds a prestigious position in Pakistan’s academic landscape. It attracts thousands of students each year for admission into various engineering disciplines. Admission is granted based on merit, including academic performance and success in the university’s entrance test, which evaluates conceptual understanding and problem-solving skills.
A Startling Disparity in Performance
While Cambridge system students passed the entrance test with flying colors, the majority of Sindh Board students, including position holders, failed to meet the benchmark. This disparity has ignited a debate over inconsistencies in educational standards between different examination systems in Pakistan.
Reported Statistics:
- Cambridge International Students: ~89% pass rate
- Sindh Board (BISE Karachi, Hyderabad, Larkana, etc.): Large percentage failed, even those with A1 grades
Key Issues Behind the Poor Performance of Sindh Board Students
1. Rote Learning vs. Conceptual Understanding
Sindh Board exams have long been criticized for promoting rote memorization over deep learning. Students often score high grades by memorizing textbooks, but fail when tested on real-world application of knowledge.
2. Outdated Curriculum
The curriculum taught in many Sindh Board institutions is outdated and poorly aligned with university entrance standards, especially in scientific and mathematical subjects.
3. Paper Checking Irregularities
Numerous reports suggest that marking practices lack transparency and are often lenient or flawed, enabling students to achieve top grades that may not reflect their actual understanding.
4. Lack of Qualified Teachers Government colleges and schools under the Sindh Board often face a shortage of trained teachers, particularly for subjects like Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics
The Cambridge Advantage
Students from the Cambridge education system are taught using modern syllabi, critical thinking approaches, and real-world problem-solving methods. Their training naturally aligns better with university-level entrance exams, giving them a competitive edge.
Public Reactions and Concerns
Parents and educationists have expressed concerns over this academic crisis. Many question the value of high grades from Sindh Board if they don’t translate into university admissions or future success.
“Our children work hard and score A1 grades, yet they are rejected by universities. What’s the point of such grades?” — A parent of a Sindh Board student
Implications for the Future
If such trends continue, trust in the local board system may further erode, prompting more families to shift to private and international systems despite higher costs
Recommendations for Reform
To bridge the gap between local and international systems, the following steps are necessary:
- Revise the Curriculum
Bring Sindh Board syllabi in line with global standards, focusing on critical thinking. - Teacher Training Programs
Regular training for teachers to improve classroom delivery and concept clarity. - Assessment Reforms
Shift from rote-based questions to concept- and application-based assessments. - Entrance Exam Preparation Support
Establish government-backed coaching centers to help local board students prepare for university tests.
Transparency in Grading
Improve the paper-checking process to ensure marks genuinely reflect a student’s ability
Final Thoughts
The failure of Sindh Board toppers in NED’s entrance test isn’t just a personal loss for students—it’s a systemic red flag. It underscores the urgent need to revamp the provincial education system, making it more competitive and aligned with modern academic demands. Without reform, the gap between privileged and underprivileged learners will only grow wider