ECZ Develops New School Examination System

By Sharon Siame

The Examinations Council of Zambia ECZ says it is developing a new examination system for Primary School Leaving and School Certificate Ordinary Level examinations.

ECZ Executive Director MICHAEL CHILALA says the draft system is currently undergoing approval processes ahead of its rollout and the orientation of teachers.

Dr. CHILALA said this in Lusaka today when Education Minister DOUGLAS SYAKALIMA announced the Grade 12 examination results.

He explained that the new examination system will combine school-based assessments with summative assessments conducted at the end of each cycle.

Dr. CHILALA said the draft guidelines for school-based assessments are complete and will be distributed to schools by April.

He added that by 2027, teachers will undergo orientation in both the main examinations and school-based assessments using sample examination papers.

Dr. CHILALA also clarified that the General Certificate of Education –GCE- examination will continue under the new system.

He said the Junior Secondary School Examination and the Junior Secondary External Examination have been abolished following a policy decision.

Meanwhile, Dr. CHILALA said registration for re-sits is ongoing, with the deadline set for the first week of March 2026.