Online Reporter
Zimpapers Reporters
GRADE Seven examinations yesterday commenced as scheduled countrywide, with stringent measures rolled out to curb leakages.
This comes as Ordinary Level examinations commenced with practical subjects last week.
At least 418 000 candidates are sitting for Grade Seven Zimsec examinations nationwide, a slight increase from last year’s 387 000 candidates.
A survey conducted by Zimpapers in Harare revealed both candidates and examination materials set up in time for the examinations to begin.
The Government last week said it was prepared for the smooth running of this year’s examinations.
“The entry at Grade 7 stood at 417 800 candidates. The Government has put in place all mechanisms to ensure that this year’s examinations proceed smoothly without any challenges. We want to give confidence to parents, pupils and stakeholders that we are ready,” said Primary and Secondary Education Minister Dr Torerayi Moyo.
“As far as Zimsec is concerned, we are more than ready. All the required equipment is in place and we want to make sure that we have uninterrupted examinations.”
Examination material for the Grade 7 examinations, one of the most important yardsticks in academic pursuit, will soon be distributed to all clusters across the country.
He said measures put in place to curb leakages include engagement and close coordination with key stakeholders in the examination papers setting and distribution chain.
“The council has put in place measures that have secured the examination since 2023. These, among others, are as follows: Outreach meetings with heads of centres through their professional associations (Nash and Naph),” he said.
“Working closely with the ministry from the district level right up to the head office, keeping question papers by Zimsec, only to be released in the morning of the examinations.
Dr Moyo underscored that this uncompromising stance marked a deliberate escalation in the fight against examination malpractice, shifting from mere administrative penalties to serious criminal consequence.
Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education spokesperson, Mr Taungana Ndoro, said the administration of public examinations remained the Government’s top priority.
“Let me be unequivocal in stating that the administration of all public examinations is a top Government priority and we have implemented a robust multi-faceted plan to ensure their integrity and smooth running. I am pleased to advice that the 2025 public examinations have commenced.
“The Grade 7 examinations started smoothly across the country this morning and we are receiving positive reports from all provinces. This is a statement to the extensive preparatory work done by our teams on the ground,” he said.
derick.khumalo