Government Approves August Holiday Lessons for Exam Classes
The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has authorised schools across Zimbabwe to conduct holiday lessons for examination candidates during the August break in a move aimed at strengthening syllabus coverage and boosting preparedness for end-of-year assessments.
Under the arrangement, learners in Grade 7, Form Four and Upper Six will be allowed to attend a supervised learning programme running for 10 days between August 7 and August 20. Schools will not be permitted to hold holiday lessons beyond the stipulated period.
Also Read: Ministry Adjusts August Vacation School Dates And Sets Standard Fees For Exam Classes
Focus on Examination Readiness
In a directive issued to school authorities, the Ministry said the temporary learning programme is designed to provide targeted academic support to examination classes as they prepare for their final assessments.
Primary and Secondary Education Permanent Secretary Moses Mhike said the initiative complements broader efforts to improve educational outcomes while ensuring learners receive the support they need ahead of crucial examinations.
He noted that curriculum reforms have shifted the role of teachers from being the primary source of knowledge to facilitators who guide learners towards independent study and self-directed learning.
Embracing Modern Learning Approaches
Mhike encouraged schools to adopt blended learning methods and make greater use of technology to strengthen learners’ ability to study independently.
According to the Ministry, these approaches will not only enhance pupil engagement but also allow teachers more time to focus on research and keeping pace with evolving educational practices.
The Ministry said ongoing reforms are aimed at improving foundational literacy and numeracy skills, expanding digital learning, enhancing safety within schools and encouraging greater parental involvement in education.
Fees Set for Holiday Programme
Authorities also outlined the fees that schools may charge for the holiday lessons.
Grade 7 learners will pay US$2 per learning area, while Form Four pupils will be charged US$3 per subject. Upper Six students will pay US$5 for each subject studied during the programme.
Boarding learners attending the lessons will be required to pay an additional US$5 to cover upkeep costs during their stay.
Balancing Support and Affordability
Mhike acknowledged that some schools have faced challenges that may have affected syllabus completion, making supplementary lessons necessary for examination classes.
At the same time, he stressed the importance of keeping education costs manageable, particularly for families with limited financial resources.
The Ministry said the holiday programme forms part of a wider strategy to ensure learning continues uninterrupted and that pupils receive adequate academic support through initiatives such as remedial teaching, catch-up lessons and literacy enhancement programmes.
Officials expressed confidence that the August classes will help examination candidates improve their readiness while reinforcing the Ministry’s commitment to delivering quality education.
The post Government Approves August Holiday Lessons for Exam Classes appeared first on iHarare News.
