The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Private Schools Regulatory Authority has decided to implement the semester system in private schools across the province, bringing a major change to the academic structure followed by thousands of students.
The move aims to synchronize private schools with government educational institutions, which shifted from the traditional annual examination model to the semester-based system last year for classes up to grade 8.
Education officials say the decision was taken after several issues emerged due to differences in academic calendars between private and public schools. Students transferring from private schools to government institutions reportedly faced difficulties because both systems were operating on different schedules and examination patterns.
Currently, most private schools in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa conduct annual exams in March and start new classes in April. However, government schools following the semester system complete their academic cycle later, with examinations continuing until the end of May.
Officials believe a unified academic structure will help improve coordination between schools and reduce disruptions for students changing institutions during the academic year.
According to education authorities, the semester model has already shown encouraging results in government schools by reducing academic stress and distributing studies more evenly throughout the year. The system is also expected to help students retain concepts better instead of relying heavily on year-end examinations.
Managing Director of the regulatory authority, Javed Iqbal, said the proposal received unanimous approval during a recent board meeting attended by representatives from private schools. He added that a committee formed by the Elementary and Secondary Education Department would finalize the implementation timeline and practical framework for private institutions.
