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HSC English version question riddled with errors, candidates outraged
Published : Monday, 27 July, 2026 at 1:10 PM
Observer Online Report
Collected Photo
Allegations of consecutive translation errors, massive mathematical inconsistencies and distortion of scientific terminology have emerged in English version question papers of the ongoing HSC examinations. Students claim that recurring errors in question papers is a discrimination compared to Bangla medium students.
They alleged that two types of education systems; Bangla medium and English version - are active under the National Curriculum and Textbook Board (NCTB). However, education boards do not give sufficient importance to preparing English version question papers.
Question papers are first set in Bangla and later translated into English through general translators. Due to the lack of proper review by subject experts, literal translations alter the actual meaning of questions in many cases.
Examinees said that translation was not required for the first four language subjects. However, serious flaws appeared in almost all subsequent science and technology exams. Severe errors occurred especially in Physics First Paper, Physics Second Paper, and Information and Communication Technology (ICT) exams, changing the core concepts of the questions.
A review of the disputed question papers shows that in a multiple-choice question of Physics First Paper, candidates were asked to find the product of efficiency and supplied energy.
However, the English version printed 'Power' instead of 'Energy'. As a result, while the correct answer in the Bangla version was 'Work Done', the English version implied 'Power Obtained'. Both options were present among the choices.
Similar inconsistencies appeared in Physics Second Paper and ICT exams. In the fourth creative question of Physics Second Paper, the condition for 'Equilibrium' present in the Bangla version was missing in the English version.
In the sixth question, information regarding point 'P' mentioned in the Bangla version was absent in the English version. This created factual differences between the two mediums for the same examination.
Education board officials said that complaints about linguistic and translation flaws in English version question papers arise almost every year.
After reviewing this year's complaints, the Inter-Education Board Coordination Committee officially informed the examination control branch and recommended necessary administrative action.
Earlier, allegations were raised regarding two 20-mark errors in Physics First Paper and four errors in Chemistry. The Ministry of Education acknowledged the errors in Physics and announced full marks for all candidates. However, the board did not acknowledge the alleged errors in Chemistry and instead tactfully issued an evaluation guideline.
-SA
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Editor : Iqbal Sobhan Chowdhury
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Published by the Editor on behalf of the Observer Ltd. from Globe Printers, 24/A, New Eskaton Road, Ramna, Dhaka.
Editorial, News and Commercial Offices : Aziz Bhaban (2nd floor), 93, Motijheel C/A, Dhaka-1000.
Phone: PABX- 41053001-06; Advertisement: 41053012; 01793317829, 01550707291, E-mail: [email protected], [email protected] Online: email: [email protected] 41053014; 01550707297 Advertisement: 01550707296
