ZIMSEC refutes claims of leaked papers and exam errors

ZIMSEC has dismissed claims of leaked or mishandled November 2025 exam papers, assuring the public that security protocols remain intact as analysts call for stronger logistics and transparency measures (image source)

The Zimbabwe School Examinations Council (ZIMSEC) moved quickly on Tuesday to rebut reports that the ongoing November 2025 Ordinary and Advanced Level examinations had been compromised by leaked papers or distribution errors. In a formal statement the examinations body insisted that no question paper for the November session has been leaked and that multi-layered security protocols remain in force across the paper-setting, printing and distribution chain. The rebuttal followed a spate of social-media posts and local media accounts alleging that some centres received incorrectly labelled papers, fewer copies than candidates, and in a few instances unsealed exam packages, prompting fears of possible malpractice and calls for urgent investigations. ZIMSEC described those reports as “misleading and unfounded” and said any minor administrative or logistical issues that arise are being handled under established standard operating procedures.

ZIMSEC’s statement thanked school heads, invigilators and security officers for maintaining order at examination centres and warned that any attempt at malpractice would attract strict disciplinary and legal action. The council said candidate attendance has been high and that conduct in centres has been “commendably orderly,” urging the public to rely on official channels for updates rather than unverified social-media claims. “ZIMSEC issues this statement to categorically reassure all candidates, parents, guardians, and the nation that the November 2025 examinations are proceeding as scheduled, with their integrity fully intact. There has been no leakage of any ZIMSEC question paper for the November 2025 examination session.” ZIMSEC statement.

School administrators contacted by this paper said the majority of centres have experienced a routine session, but acknowledged isolated administrative hiccups such as late arrivals of some packages and occasional mismatches in paper labelling that were corrected on site. One headmistress in Harare, speaking on condition of anonymity, said invigilators followed ZIMSEC guidance to verify seals and candidate lists before allowing papers into examination halls; she added that where problems occurred, they were logged and reported to district officers for follow-up.

Education analysts say the episode highlights two persistent vulnerabilities in high-stakes testing: logistics under pressure and the speed at which rumours spread on social platforms. An independent assessment by an education consultant recommended tighter chain-of-custody checks at district distribution points and a public-facing incident log so schools and parents can see how reported problems are resolved. Practical measures suggested by experts include mandatory photographic records of sealed packages at dispatch, time-stamped handover receipts between distribution officers and centre managers, and rapid-response teams to replace any compromised materials before a paper is written. Those steps, analysts say, would reduce the scope for genuine leaks and blunt the impact of false alarms.

ZIMSEC’s appeal for calm comes as the examinations body prepares to complete the November session and begin marking. The council reiterated that it will continue to monitor the process vigilantly and prosecute malpractice where evidence exists, while urging stakeholders to verify information through official ZIMSEC channels rather than social media. For candidates and parents the immediate priority is clear: continue to follow invigilator instructions, report any irregularities through school authorities, and await official communiqués from ZIMSEC rather than reacting to unverified reports.