No recommendation, only merit policy adopted for board chairmen: Minister Sikandar

Punjab Minister for Education Rana Sikandar Hayat has said that the appointment of chairmen for educational boards is being carried out strictly on the principle of “no parchi, no recommendation, only merit”

LAHORE, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 24th Apr, 2026) Punjab Minister for education Rana Sikandar Hayat has said that the appointment of chairmen for educational boards is being carried out strictly on the principle of “no parchi, no recommendation, only merit.”

He said that merit-based appointments would ensure greater transparency and improved performance in the examination system.

According to official sources on Friday, the process for appointing new chairmen of Punjab’s educational boards has entered its final stage, as interviews of shortlisted candidates have been conducted. The minister personally interviewed the candidates and assessed their capabilities.

More than 250 candidates were initially interviewed, out of which 50 were shortlisted for the final phase. During the interviews, special emphasis was laid on evaluating candidates’ professional competence, technological awareness and alignment with modern educational requirements.

The minister also examined candidates' understanding of Artificial Intelligence (AI), management of educational boards and examination systems. He further sought their vision regarding introducing reforms and implementing AI-based initiatives in the boards.