Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Zimeye
Published on 2024-03-21 05:23:43
The Ministry of Education has extended the Ordinary and Advanced Level examination fees deadline by two months, providing relief to parents and students who were struggling to meet the initial deadline set by the Zimbabwe Schools Examination Council (Zimsec). The deadline was initially set for March 23 but has now been extended to the first week of May.
During a session in the Parliament, Primary and Secondary Education Minister Torerayi Moyo announced the extension in response to concerns raised by legislators and parents. The extension came after legislators highlighted the challenges faced by parents in raising funds due to the El Nino-induced drought. Some examination centers had set their own deadline for payment, causing further anxiety among pupils and parents.
Minister Moyo stated that the official deadline for the November examination is March 25, 2024, but due to the request from Members of Parliament, the deadline has been extended to the first week of May. This extension aims to ensure that all students have the opportunity to register as candidates without financial constraints.
The government has also introduced social protection measures for students who are unable to pay tuition and examination fees. At the primary and secondary level, the Basic Education Assistance Module (BEAM) has been established to support disadvantaged learners. Additionally, loans have been made available for students at State tertiary institutions, administered by financial institutions. The introduction of “work for tuition fees” programs allows students at universities and colleges to work at their institutions in lieu of paying tuition fees.
Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi and Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science, and Technology Development Minister, Professor Amon Murwira, emphasized the importance of paying tuition fees either by the State or parents. They highlighted the various programs available for students to access financial assistance for their education.
Minister Ziyambi urged parents to prepare for examination fees in a timely manner, emphasizing the importance of planning ahead for such expenses. Zimsec has also provided flexibility by allowing parents to pay in Zimbabwe dollars, US dollars, or South African rand, depending on their preference.
Overall, the extension of the examination fees deadline will provide relief to many parents and students who were facing financial challenges. The government’s commitment to ensuring access to education through various social protection measures demonstrates its dedication to supporting students in their academic pursuits. Students and parents are encouraged to take advantage of the available resources and programs to ensure that education remains accessible to all.
Read the original article on The Zimbabwe Eye
