The Ministry of Interior has instructed the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) to launch a comprehensive inquiry into the alleged leak of Cambridge examination papers. This directive was issued during a high-level meeting held at the Ministry of Interior and Narcotics Control, chaired by Interior Secretary Muhammad Khurram Agha, following directives from Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Education Minister Dr Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui.
The move follows Cambridge International Education’s (CIE) announcement to postpone the A-level Mathematics Paper 32 (9709) after the AS-level Mathematics Paper 52 (9709) was reportedly leaked. CIE has committed to providing detailed guidance to schools by May 22 on the steps to be taken in response to the incident.
The meeting included key participants such as Federal Education Secretary Nadeem Mahbub, representatives from Cambridge Assessment International Education (CAIE), NCCIA Director General Syed Khurram Ali, officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the British Council, and other relevant stakeholders. During the discussions, the Education Ministry secretary outlined government and parental concerns about the alleged leak of Cambridge O Level Mathematics examination papers.
Notably, the British Deputy High Commissioner indicated that the issue seemed to involve theft rather than a direct leak of exam papers. CAIE representatives emphasized that Cambridge upholds rigorous standards to maintain transparency and integrity in its examination processes.
The Education Ministry secretary also highlighted worries about reports of another paper leak and requested Cambridge’s official stance amid growing anxiety among students and parents. Cambridge representatives assured the forum that an official update would be provided promptly.
Interior Secretary Muhammad Khurram Agha expressed grave concern over the alleged breach and underscored the necessity for coordinated, effective measures to resolve the matter swiftly. He instructed the NCCIA Director General to conduct the investigation in close collaboration with Cambridge, stressing strict adherence to the decisions made during the meeting and timely communication of investigation results to uphold transparency and public trust.
Furthermore, it was agreed that Cambridge would enhance its system capabilities to address vulnerabilities and prevent future breaches in the examination process.
In a statement issued the previous day, CIE confirmed that its AS-level mathematics paper had been prematurely disclosed in violation of its strict regulations. The organization stated it was conducting a prompt and thorough investigation to assess the scope of the leak and determine appropriate next steps.
