BISE Bannu Postpones SSC Exams Amid Security Concerns and Internet Outage

BANNU: The Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education (BISE) Bannu has officially postponed the Secondary School Certificate (SSC) Annual-II and Oriental Languages Examinations scheduled for October 7 to 10, citing deteriorating security conditions and the suspension of communication services in the region.

According to a formal notification issued by the BISE Bannu chairman, the decision was prompted by the suspension of mobile phone and internet services within the board’s jurisdiction. Officials emphasized that the communication blackout poses severe logistical challenges, making it nearly impossible to distribute roll number slips, duty letters, and essential examination stationery to various centers in a timely and secure manner. The board noted that these disruptions could severely compromise the smooth and transparent conduct of the examinations.

The suspension of these critical examinations highlights the growing security challenges in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where localized unrest and subsequent digital blockades frequently disrupt public services and academic calendars. Parents and educators have expressed deep concern over the academic setback for thousands of matriculation students, warning that prolonged uncertainty and communication gaps could compromise the transparency and integrity of the examination process. This postponement underscores the broader impact of regional instability on the youth’s educational progress.

While the remaining papers will proceed according to the previously announced date sheet, the board confirmed that a revised schedule for the postponed papers will be announced in due course. Local administration and security agencies are reportedly reviewing the security situation to ensure a safe environment for the resumption of the examinations, while students have been advised to stay in touch with their respective schools for updates.