Education Minister ANM Ehsanul Hoque Milon on Tuesday issued strict directives to ensure that the Secondary School Certificate (SSC) and equivalent examinations 2026 are conducted in a fair, transparent and time-appropriate manner, with zero tolerance for malpractice.

The minister came up with the directives at a view-exchange meeting with chairmen of all education boards and senior officials of the Ministry of Education at the ministry’s conference room.

Reviewing the overall preparations for the SSC and equivalent examinations, Milon instructed authorities concerned to re-investigate vulnerable exam centres and prepare an updated list to prevent any irregularities.

Reaffirming a tough stance against question leaks and cheating, the minister said necessary laws would be enacted to prevent malpractice through digital devices.

Milon also directed that thorough body searches of examinees be ensured before entering examination halls and that teachers play a proactive role in preventing cheating.

“If any question paper or related content is found to be uploaded on social media or any online platform during the examination, legal action will be taken against those involved,” Milon warned.

Highlighting planned reforms in the examination system, the minister said the existing structure would be overhauled to build a merit-based nation. “There will be no more scope for auto-pass. The long-standing practice of awarding average marks in practical examinations will be replaced with proper assessment based on actual performance.”

He further cautioned that if any cheating materials are found even in the washrooms of examination centres, the authorities of the respective centres will be held accountable. “To strengthen anti-cheating efforts, motivational meetings will be organised across districts nationwide.”

The minister also outlined a plan to establish Zila schools in districts where none currently exist, saying these institutions will follow a higher secondary school model, offering education from Class I to Class XII to ensure a more integrated and robust education system.

State Minister Bobby Hajjaj was present at the meeting and provided necessary guidance to ensure that the SSC and equivalent examinations are completed in a fair, transparent and credible manner, urging all concerned to carry out their responsibilities with sincerity.

Although the SSC examinations are usually held in February each year, this year’s exams have been deferred by two months due to the 13th national parliamentary election and the holy month of Ramadan.

The written examinations will begin on April 21 and conclude on May 20, while practical exams will be held between June 7 and June 14.