Modular learning remains official policy for universities – Government

THE Government has clarified that modular learning remains the official policy for all state universities, following confusion at Lupane State University (LSU) over its academic calendar.

Last week, LSU issued two contradictory circulars within 24 hours regarding the future of its academic calendar, raising concerns over a possible shift from modular learning to the traditional semester system.

In a circular dated 12 March 2026, signed by Deputy Registrar Mr P. Ncube, the university announced the suspension of modular delivery. The notice indicated that end of session examinations scheduled for 23–27 March would instead be written at the end of the semester and that modular learning would be phased out from the next semester starting in August 2026.

Close sources told The Chronicle that the initial circular followed a high-level meeting where deans and faculty heads expressed concerns over the effectiveness of modular learning.

“There was a feeling that the system was not working optimally and that students were struggling to keep up,” a source said.

However, on 13 March, the Registrar, Mr T Donga, issued a retraction clarifying that modular learning would continue until an official directive from the Ministry of Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development indicates otherwise.

Modular learning differs from the semester system in structure. While the semester system divides the academic year into two blocks with examinations at the end of each block, modular learning breaks the year into smaller, intensive modules, allowing students to complete and be assessed on each module within a concentrated period.

The Government moved quickly to clarify its position. Permanent Secretary, Professor Fanuel Tagwira, confirmed there had been no policy change.

“We agreed that we are moving towards modularisation. I am not aware of any institution that is using semesterisation. However, what I know is that Lupane State University has reversed that,” he said.

The ministry stressed that all state universities are expected to continue implementing modular learning.

…More details to follow