Strict measures in place for HSC and equivalent exams; coaching centers shut, law enforcement on alert, and high-level monitoring ensured.

The Government of Bangladesh is taking a firm and uncompromising stance against question paper leaks in this year’s Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) and equivalent examinations, said Professor Dr. Chowdhury Rafiqul Abrar, Adviser to the Ministry of Education.

In a media briefing held on Wednesday at the Secretariat, Dr. Abrar emphasized that the government is determined to avoid a repeat of past question paper leak incidents and is implementing extensive preventive measures to ensure the integrity of the examination process.

“We have witnessed many unfortunate incidents of question paper leaks in the past. This year, we want to see zero such occurrences. Strict instructions have already been issued to all relevant authorities,” Dr. Abrar said. He noted that the education system is going through a critical period marked by instability, and it is essential that at least the national examinations are conducted fairly and peacefully.

To reinforce security, the government has made special arrangements at examination centers across the country. This includes tight surveillance, secured and timely delivery of question papers, and a robust presence of law enforcement agencies.

"If any individual is found involved in leaking question papers or supplying cheating materials at any center, immediate and strict actions will be taken on the spot,” the adviser warned. “There will be zero tolerance.”

In addition to law enforcement, teachers and local administrators will play key roles in deterring cheating and misconduct. Dr. Abrar further said that the ministry has been working tirelessly to raise the standard of education and to build an educated and skilled generation. “I have taken up this responsibility for a very short period, but I am committed to taking every necessary step to uphold the credibility of our education system.”

In a proactive move to curb rumors and ensure the mental well-being of students, all coaching centers across the country will remain closed until August 15. This decision aims to prevent the spread of fake or leaked questions, which often circulate through such informal networks.

Security protocols have also been strengthened during the transportation of question papers. Members of the law enforcement agencies assigned to exam duties have been instructed to remain extra vigilant. The Education Adviser mentioned that the district administration and security forces have been empowered to act swiftly against anyone involved in wrongdoing during the examination period.

This year’s HSC and equivalent examinations are set to begin on Thursday, June 26, with the Bangla First Paper scheduled at 10:00 AM. The written exams will continue until August 10, followed by practical exams.

A total of 12,51,111 students are expected to participate in the examinations nationwide. Of them, more than 1,055,000 candidates will sit under the nine general education boards. Over 86,000 students are registered under the Madrasa Board (Alim), and more than 109,000 students will take the exam under the Technical Education Board.

Exams will be held at 2,797 centers across the country. The Education Adviser also confirmed he would personally visit some centers during the examination period to oversee operations.

In conclusion, Dr. Abrar called on all students, parents, teachers, and administrators to cooperate in creating a fair, secure, and leak-free environment for the exams. “This is not just a test of the students’ knowledge but also a test of our commitment to building an honest and capable generation,” he said.