In a recurring scandal that continues to shake the trust in Pakistan’s education system, Sindh’s education boards have once again failed to control rampant paper leakage during the crucial matriculation exams.
On Wednesday, the 10th-grade mathematics paper in Karachi was leaked 15 minutes before the exam started—spreading like wildfire on WhatsApp, complete with solved answers.
The incident, first reported by 24NewsHD TV, exposes a persistent security lapse that continues to undermine students’ futures and the credibility of the system.
WhatsApp Becomes the New Exam Hall
- Mathematics paper leak: In Karachi, students and coaching centers reportedly had access to the complete mathematics paper before the scheduled time.
- Solved answers go viral: Along with the question paper, fully solved answers were also shared across social media platforms.
- Controller’s warning: The Board’s Controller of Examinations announced that FIRs will be registered against those involved and warned students not to participate in WhatsApp groups associated with paper sharing.
Larkana: A Hotbed of Leaks and Cheating
Meanwhile, over in Larkana, the situation was no better. On the same day, the 10th-grade Pakistan Studies paper under the Larkana Education Board was also leaked.
- Widespread leakage areas: Reports confirmed leaks in Thull, Garhi Hassan, and Larkana.
- “Booti mafia” in action: A local cheating ring immediately began solving the paper and distributing answers in real-time via WhatsApp.
- Complete breakdown: The Larkana board appears to have entirely lost control, raising serious questions about the legitimacy of the exams being held.
Also Read: Scholarship Scam Alert: What Every Student Must Know Before Applying to College in 2025
Who’s Behind the “Booti Mafia”?
This isn’t an isolated incident. Year after year, exam leaks in Sindh and across Pakistan follow a disturbingly similar pattern:
- Well-organized cheating rackets, often referred to as the “booti mafia”, continue to exploit security lapses.
- Complicit insiders? Paper leaks often point to possible internal involvement—be it from board officials, printing staff, or invigilators.
- Inadequate oversight: Despite repeated promises, exam security protocols remain outdated and ineffective.
The Real Victims: Honest Students
While the authorities scramble, it’s the hardworking students who suffer the most.
- Merit becomes meaningless when exam papers are shared in advance.
- Many students lose motivation and trust in the system.
- A culture of shortcuts and dishonesty begins to take root early in life.
What Needs to Change?
For meaningful reform, Sindh’s education boards must go beyond lip service:
- End-to-end digital encryption for exam papers
- AI-powered surveillance in printing and exam centers
- Strict punishment and transparency in investigation outcomes
- Third-party audit of exam board procedures
- Awareness campaigns against cheating and paper buying
Can AI Help Prevent Paper Leaks?
Yes. With the right implementation, AI can:
- Monitor social media and messaging platforms for early leak signals.
- Detect suspicious sharing patterns.
- Improve logistical coordination between paper creation and distribution.
Call to Action
It’s time for students, parents, educators, and policymakers to come together and demand real accountability. These recurring leaks are not just a technical failure—they represent a systemic collapse that affects generations.
Also Read: Ahsan Iqbal Urges Urgent Education & Healthcare Reforms to Secure Pakistan’s Future
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