Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Zimeye
Published on 2024-04-03 20:07:58
Zimsec, the Zimbabwe Schools Examination Council, has recently announced the Grade 7 examination dates for the year 2024. The timetable for the exams was released and distributed to schools across the country, with the first exam scheduled for September 23, 2024.
Parents and guardians have also been informed about the examination timetable and are encouraged to share this information with the candidates. The release of the timetable comes after the Ministry of Education extended the deadline for Ordinary and Advanced Level examination fees by two months. Initially set for March 23, the new deadline is now in the first week of May, providing more time for schools and parents to raise the necessary funds.
During a parliamentary session in March, Primary and Secondary Education Minister Torerayi Moyo acknowledged concerns from legislators and parents who expressed difficulties in meeting the initial deadline set by Zimsec. The extension of the deadline was a response to these concerns, ensuring that all candidates have adequate time to register for the exams.
The government has also introduced various social protection measures for students who may be unable to pay tuition and examination fees. At the primary and secondary level, the Basic Education Assistance Module (BEAM) is available for disadvantaged learners. Additionally, loans are offered for students at state tertiary institutions, and a “work for tuition fees” program allows students to work at their institution in exchange for their tuition.
Ministers Ziyambi Ziyambi and Professor Amon Murwira addressed concerns about students being barred from writing examinations due to non-payment of fees. They emphasized that payment of tuition fees is essential, either by the state or by parents. Students at tertiary institutions are encouraged to utilize loan facilities from financial institutions or participate in work-for-fees programs at their institutions.
Despite these support measures, there has been a low uptake of loans, with Minister Murwira noting that the university system will bar students who are not fully paid up. He urged students to seek assistance from authorities if they are facing financial challenges.
Parents are reminded to adequately prepare for examination fees on time, as the deadline for payment is crucial for candidates to register for the exams. Zimsec has also specified that examination fees for Ordinary and Advanced Level, Grade 6, and Grade 7 should be paid in Zimbabwe dollars at the interbank rate. However, parents who prefer to pay in US dollars or the South African rand can still do so.
Overall, the announcement of Grade 7 examination dates and the extension of the deadline for examination fees reflect the government’s commitment to ensuring that all students have equal opportunities to participate in the examination process. By providing support measures and extending deadlines, efforts are being made to address financial challenges that may hinder students from taking their exams.
Read the original article on The Zimbabwe Eye
