“No Child Should Be Stopped From Sitting ZIMSEC Exams”

Minister of Primary and Secondary Education Torerayi Moyo says the Ministry has moved to ensure that no pupil is ever again barred from sitting ZIMSEC examinations on frivolous grounds.

This follows an incident in Harare where learners were prevented from writing their exams over allegedly “inappropriate” hairstyles.

Moyo said the school’s actions violated the learners’ right to education and breached the Ministry’s policy on inclusive, non-discriminatory access to examinations. He said:

“Let me be unequivocally clear, Public exams are sacrosanct and no amount of pupil indiscipline, unless life-threatening, should bar anyone from accessing their constitutional right to education.

“Following a thorough investigation, I can confirm that the school’s Head and Director responsible for this unlawful exclusion have been arrested and are currently assisting law enforcement with further inquiries.

“We commend the swift action taken by the authorities to uphold justice and protect the rights of our learners.”

Moyo said the Ministry has issued a directive to all schools, stressing that no registered candidate may be denied access to examinations under any circumstances.

He added that the Ministry is engaging school heads and administrators to reinforce professional conduct and ensure full adherence to its guidelines.

Moyo also said support is being provided to the affected learners and their families, including exploring ways for the pupils to sit the examinations they missed.

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