Performance of learners during exams still low- ECZ

The Examinations Council of Zambia (ECZ) says the performance of learners during examinations has remained low over time with minor notable improvement recorded in some schools.

Speaking during the 2014 national performance review meeting in Lusaka today, ECZ Director of Standards and Curriculum Cecilia Sakala says during the year under review, 41 schools recorded 100 percent pass rate for the 2014 joint school certificate and general certificate of education.

Ms Sakala explains that the examination session also decreased from 60.21 percent in 2013 to 55.87 percent in 2014 at general certificate education level.

She stresses that at grade nine level, the 2014 examination recorded an increase in the number of candidates obtaining certificates from 54.89 percent in 2013 to 56.48 percent in 2014.

Mrs. Sakala however states that the learners’ performance remains relatively low at grades nine and twelve levels with a few improvements in some schools.

She has since appealed to key staff in the ministry of Education, teacher unions and the council of staff of the Examinations Council of Zambia to ensure that they continue to work hard and provide the necessarily guidance to help improve learners’ performance in schools.