Authorities have refused to bow down to pressure to extend the date for commencement of the Primary School Leaving Certificate of Education Examinations.
The decision by the authorities comes in spite of growing concerns from stakeholders that the current date of 10th May 2023 is too soon as leaners need adequate time to prepare for the examinations amidst the impacts of cyclone Freddy.
According to concerned parties there is need for government to consider extending the date so that leaners are given ample time to catch up on material which they missed due to disruptions caused by the disaster.
However, reacting to the worries, Mayamiko Chiwaya Spokesperson for the Malawi National Examinations Board said authorities will not change the timetable.
According to Chiwaya, this is because schools have resumed classes and leaners are already catching up on material they failed to cover during the disaster period.
Meanwhile, Charles Kumchenga, President for the Teachers Union of Malawi has urged teachers to do everything possible to ensure that leaners are well equipped to sit for the examinations.
On his part, Benedicto Kondowe, an expert has faulted the timing of the examinations arguing there is need to give leaners enough time to prepare specifically those in the southern region, following devastating impacts of cyclone Freddy.
