Government Vows to End Zero Percent Grade 7 Pass Rates by 2030

The government has made a commitment to address the zero percent pass rates recorded in some schools at the Grade 7 level. The ambitious goal is to achieve near-total success by 2030.

The Zimbabwe School Examinations Council (ZIMSEC) released the 2024 Grade 7 results, showing a 49.01% national pass rate. This represents an improvement from last year’s 45.57%.

Girls outperformed boys with an average pass rate of 53.68%, while boys trailed behind at 43.99%. Despite this progress, challenges persist in certain regions.

Several schools in Matabeleland recorded zero pass rates. Notable examples include Zindele, Koodooval, and Driehoek in Gwanda District, alongside others in Insiza, Bulilima, and Matabeleland North.

Schools such as Ndutshwa, Phumuza, and Riverblock in Bulilima District also failed to secure any passes. The trend extended to districts like Lupane, Hwange, and Tsholotsho.

Responding to these alarming statistics, Director of Communications and Advocacy, Taungana Ndoro, highlighted ongoing efforts to address the disparities in rural schools. Resources are a key focus.

The government plans to provide textbooks, teaching materials, advanced technologies, and fully equipped science laboratories to struggling schools. These measures aim to level the playing field.

Ndoro expressed optimism about the overall trend in Grade 7 performance. Over four years, the pass rate has risen from 37% in 2020 to 49% in 2024, a notable 12% increase.

He described this progress as phenomenal, indicating that the strategies implemented are beginning to yield positive results. The Ministry aims to bridge the 50% pass rate threshold by 2025.

Ndoro reiterated the government’s confidence in eradicating zero percent pass rates. He emphasized that these issues would soon become relics of the past due to the current initiatives.

The vision for 2030 includes a robust educational system capable of delivering nearly universal Grade 7 pass rates. This commitment underscores the government’s focus on equitable education for all.

Improving rural education remains at the heart of this mission. The government acknowledges the challenges and is working to ensure no child is left behind in the pursuit of academic success.

As efforts continue, stakeholders hope to see sustained improvement in Grade 7 performance, further closing the gap between urban and rural schools.

The Zim Bulletin