Onkar Singh’s Stunning Victory
Meet Onkar Singh, a 15-year-old student from Crescent Model Higher Secondary School in Lahore’s Shadman Colony, who has made history by scoring a near-perfect 554 out of 555 marks in the 2025 BISE Lahore 9th Class exams. Sikh Student Tops Islamiyat, Quran Subjects in Lahore Board Exam has left everyone in awe, especially since these subjects, mandatory in Pakistan’s curriculum, dive deep into Islamic teachings, ethics, and the Quran. For a Sikh student to ace these subjects is nothing short of extraordinary, showcasing his dedication and respect for all faiths.
But that’s not all—Onkar nailed every subject! He scored a perfect 75/75 in English and Mathematics, 74/75 in Urdu, 60/60 in Physics and Chemistry, and 59/60 in Biology, earning A+ grades across the board. His official marksheet, available on the BISE Lahore website, paints a picture of a versatile scholar with a passion for learning. Onkar credits his success to his teachers’ guidance and his parents’ unwavering support, especially his father, Dr. Mimpal Singh, a renowned doctor honored with the Tamgha-e-Imtiaz in 2024. Dr. Singh beamed with pride, calling Onkar’s achievement a win for the Sikh community and Pakistan. With dreams of becoming a doctor, Onkar’s future looks as bright as his report card!
The Lahore Board Exams: A Tough Battle
The BISE Lahore 9th Class exams are a big deal in Pakistan, marking a key step for students moving from middle to high school. In 2025, over 308,000 students took the plunge, but the results were sobering—only 45% passed, leaving a whopping 55% failing. Punjab Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat pointed to stricter measures against cheating, dubbed the “booty mafia,” as a reason for the high failure rate, signaling a push for fairer exams. Boys struggled more, with a 65% failure rate compared to 47% for girls, and government schools lagged behind with a 60% failure rate against private schools’ 67% pass rate. Against this tough backdrop, Onkar’s near-perfect score stands out as a beacon of excellence.
Why Onkar’s Success in Religious Subjects Matters
What makes Onkar’s story truly special is his choice to study Islamic Studies and Translation of the Holy Quran, despite being offered alternative subjects as a Sikh student. These subjects demand a deep understanding of Islamic principles, from the Quran and Hadith to ethics and history. Onkar’s near-perfect scores show not just academic brilliance but also a heartfelt respect for another faith. In a country where Sikhs number just 15,000–20,000—a sharp drop from the 2 million before India’s 1947 partition—his achievement is a powerful symbol of interfaith harmony. Sacred Sikh sites like Nankana Sahib, the birthplace of Guru Nanak Dev, remind us of the community’s deep roots in Pakistan, and Onkar’s success adds a new chapter to that legacy. READ NEXT https://elevenpakistan.com/pakistanis-drink-tea-worth-40-million/
Punjab Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat gave Onkar a shout-out on social media, saying, “Well done!” He also raised a bold question about why many Muslim students struggled in these subjects, calling for better teaching in government schools. Onkar’s story is a wake-up call, showing how education can unite communities and challenge stereotypes.
What This Means for Pakistan’s Schools
Onkar’s triumph has sparked bigger questions about Pakistan’s education system, especially in Punjab. The 2025 BISE Lahore exams exposed deep-rooted issues—outdated curricula, uneven teacher training, and gaps between public and private schools. Onkar’s success in religious subjects has prompted soul-searching about why many students, particularly in government schools, struggled. His choice to embrace Pakistan’s Islamic curriculum reflects the inclusive spirit of Sikhism—think Guru Nanak’s teachings of unity, honesty, and sharing. Yet, his story also highlights challenges for minorities, with some social media users noting that despite his brilliance, Onkar may face hurdles in reaching top roles due to his Sikh identity. Pakistan’s minorities, including Sikhs, Hindus, and Christians, make up less than 5% of the population, and stories like Onkar’s push for a more inclusive future.X
A Nation Cheers for Onkar
The Sikh community is bursting with pride over Onkar’s feat. His father, Dr. Mimpal Singh, called it a testament to hard work and positivity. Groups like the Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Parbandhik Committee and Punjabi Sikh Sangat are set to honor Onkar, following the tradition of celebrating Sikh toppers, like those from Nankana Sahib in 2019. A special ceremony for Punjab’s top performers will likely put Onkar in the spotlight. On social media, especially X, users like @ITGGlobal and @thetatvaindia have hailed his scores, with some marveling at his mastery of Islamic Studies. The buzz reflects a mix of admiration and surprise, with many noting the irony of a Sikh student outshining others in religious subjects.
A Bright Future Ahead
Onkar Singh’s incredible 99.1% score in the 2025 BISE Lahore exams is more than a personal victory—it’s a story of grit, unity, and the magic of education. By acing Islamic Studies and Translation of the Holy Quran, he’s shown that knowledge and respect can break down barriers. His success shines a light on the Sikh community’s contributions and challenges Pakistan to fix its education system. As Onkar sets his sights on becoming a doctor, his journey inspires students everywhere, proving that with hard work and an open heart, anything is possible. Here’s to a brighter, more inclusive Pakistan!
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