Tinotenda Hove – Zimbabwe’s Grade Seven learners commenced their national examinations this Monday, beginning with English Paper One, in a process that will run until 6 October.

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education confirmed that the opening day proceeded without disruptions across the country.

“We have received positive reports from Provinces that the examinations went smoothly. This is a testament to extensive preparatory work from our team on the ground. Grade Seven examinations remain critical to our Ministry,” Director of Communication and Advocacy, Mr Taungana Ndoro, said.

The national examinations mark the culmination of nine years of learning for primary school pupils, including two years in Early Childhood Development.

Last year, over 380,000 candidates sat for the Grade Seven public examinations, with the Zimbabwe Schools Examinations Council recording a 49 percent pass rate, an improvement from just above 45 percent in 2023.

This year’s session is expected to continue until early October, with authorities optimistic about strong performance from the 2025 cohort.