Staff Reporter
Educationalist, parents and guardians have applauded the Second Republic for promoting access to education and equal opportunities for all students regardless of their socio-economic background.
This follows the Government decision to subsidise Zimbabwe School Examinations Council (Zimsec) 2024 Ordinary and Advanced level examination fees. In addition, Government has also set aside US$12 million for the registration of more schools as examination centres across the country.
“The Government will pay 55% of the fees per subject for candidates in public, local authority and mission schools, while those in private schools and colleges will pay the full cost,” Zimsec finance director, Ms Zipora Muzenda said in a statement, on X.
For Ordinary level, after subsidy, the fees will be US$11 per subject. However, candidates in private schools and colleges will have to pay US$24 per subject. The exam fees can also be paid in local currency using the prevailing interbank rate.
Speaking to this publication, Mary Chikwaka, a guardian of a child at Zengeza High 1 School said that “the subsidy has reduced the financial burden on families and l would like to thank the Government for ensuring that education is affordable.”
Expressing the same sentiments, Dr Ian Marekera, a political analyst, commended the Government for safeguarding equal access to education for all students stating that “the subsidy will encourage more public school students to pursue their academic goals.”
“Subsidisation of the exam fees by the Government reflects on the Second Republic’s recognition of the importance of education in fostering national development and empowering individuals to reach their full potential,” added Marekera.
The development demonstrates Government’s commitment to improving the education sector and providing opportunities for all citizens to access quality education. The subsidizing of exam fees comes on the backdrop of the Second Republic’s positive steps in integrating technology into education and investment in the construction and renovation of school infrastructure.
