Poor 9th-grade results in Attock lead to suspension of 22 headmasters, teachers

In Attock district, authorities have suspended 22 headmasters and teachers following poor performance in recent 9th-class board exams. The District Education Department launched a crackdown on underperforming schools after the Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education (BISE) Rawalpindi announced the results. Senior education officials conducted inspections at 42 institutions, reviewing attendance, teacher availability, syllabus coverage, discipline, and facilities.

Three schools had no students appearing in the 9th-class exam, sparking concerns about enrolment and continuity.

The education authorities seek explanations from school heads and demanded personal hearings to justify their performance. Teachers from different schools argued that school heads and teachers cannot be solely blamed for poor results, as the issue lies deeper within the education system. They highlighted the automatic promotion policy up to 8th class, which allows weak students to reach 9th class without acquiring essential knowledge and skills.

Teachers also pointed out the shortage of subject specialists in secondary schools, as no significant recruitment has occurred in the district for a decade despite rising student numbers and teacher retirements. They questioned how schools can ensure quality education and high results when facing a severe shortage of teachers and specialists, who are often directed to cultivate vegetables during academic hours.