Zimsec Rolls Out Grade 7 Exam Measures to Curb Leakages

By Rumbidzai Rudanda

At least 418,000 pupils are preparing to sit for the 2025 Grade Seven Zimbabwe School Examinations Council (ZIMSEC) examinations, which begin on 22 September, the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has confirmed.

This year’s enrolment of 417,800 candidates marks a sharp increase from last year’s 387,000, with authorities assuring the public that robust measures have been put in place to safeguard the integrity of the examinations.

Primary and Secondary Education Minister Dr. Torerayi Moyo said government had tightened security to prevent exam leakages and ensure a smooth process nationwide.

“The Government has put in place all mechanisms to ensure that this year’s examinations proceed smoothly without any challenges,” Dr. Moyo said. “We want to make sure that we have uninterrupted examinations.”

ZIMSEC has reportedly finalized the distribution of exam materials across the country under strict security. The council, which has not recorded any paper leakages since 2023, has pledged close collaboration with education associations to protect the examinations.

Dr. Moyo also revealed that the Zimbabwe School Examinations Amendment Bill, which seeks to criminalize exam leakages, will introduce custodial sentences for offenders.

“Anyone who participates in the leakage will be given a custodial sentence. So there won’t be any fines,” he said.

The minister expressed optimism about improved performance this year, projecting a pass rate of over 55%, up from 49% in 2024.

As the examinations draw near, the government’s emphasis on security and fairness underscores its broader efforts to restore confidence in the education system.