PROTUZ urges pupils to prepare well for exams

Kangwa Musenga

The Professional Teachers Union of Zambia (PROTUZ) has attributed the high rate of absenteeism during examinations by grades nine and seven pupils in the country to a number of factors including early marriage.

According to Examination Council of Zambia statistics, 62,294 Grade Nine pupils absented themselves from exams in 2015, while 39,160 Grade Seven pupils did not sit for their exams in the same year. In 2016 47,300 grade nine pupils absconded from exams, with 34,632 grade sevens pupils staying away from exams.

PROTUZ General Secretary Kangwa Musenga says some of the factors include lack of preparedness by learners, early marriage and relocation.

Mr. Musenga notes that the absenteeism rate is higher in day schools compared to boarding schools.

He says this is a national issue which requires all stakeholders to play a role in ensuring that pupils write their exams and progress in their education.