MSB BOSS EXPLAINS EXAM PREPARATION
By Nigel MADO, Port Moresby
As the National Examinations are underway, it is easy to overlook the enormous effort and planning that goes into this process. On the Nasfund FM100 Talkback Show, the First Assistant Secretary for Measurement Services Division, Pakiam Arulopan, shed light on the rigorous planning that begins two years before students sit their exams.
“For Grade 8 and 10, we conduct workshops with teachers from various provinces to create and test exam questions. We trial these papers in town schools, rural schools, and even remote village schools to ensure fairness across the board,” Mr. Arulopan explained.
This meticulous process, aimed at ensuring fairness, is followed by careful analysis and moderation of results. In the case of Grade 12 exams, where there is no trial process, university lecturers are brought in to design questions that test students’ critical thinking and application of knowledge.
“We have quality control measures in place to ensure these exams are fair and balanced for all students,” Mr. Arulopan added.
Apart from this, the integrity of National examination system was a key topic of discussion, where Education Secretary Dr. Uke Kombra addressed concerns about exam security and cheating.
He warned of the serious consequences for students and schools caught tampering with the exams.
“Our system has safeguards in place to detect cheating, and students found guilty face harsh penalties such as being denied certification,” he said.
Dr. Kombra also spoke about the criminal elements that occasionally attempt to steal and sell exam papers. However, he reassured listeners that robust security measures are in place at all stages, from preparation to marking.
The Department of Education, alongside police forces, works to maintain the integrity of the exams. Parents, teachers, and students are encouraged to report any suspicious activities and uphold the values of honesty.
