ZIMSEC withholds three A-Level Computer Science results at Bikita Fashu High

ZIMSEC withholds three A-Level Computer Science results at Bikita Fashu High (image source)

The Zimbabwe Schools Examination Council (ZIMSEC) has withheld the 2025 Advanced Level Computer Science results of three candidates from Bikita Fashu High School in Masvingo Province while it investigates suspected examination irregularities. 

ZIMSEC spokesperson Nicky Dhlamini confirmed the action and said the school has 42 days to submit a written explanation and supporting documentation to account for the irregularities detected. “If we withhold results it means that there is something unusual that we picked,” Dhlamini said. 

Of the six candidates who sat the subject at Bikita Fashu, three results were released an A for Tinotenda Chinhondo, a B for Godwill Matsvimbo and a C for Langton Manyanda while the results for Takudzwa Manunure, Tadiwanashe Garandiya and Rutendo Jamayo remain withheld pending the outcome of the probe.  ZIMSEC’s withholding procedure is designed to protect the integrity of national examinations while allowing centres to explain anomalies. The council’s 42-day window is standard practice: schools must present evidence, after which ZIMSEC will either release results, apply penalties, or refer cases for further disciplinary action if malpractice is substantiated. 

(image source)

One affected candidate, Tadiwanashe Garandiya, said he complied with ZIMSEC’s request and wrote a report but expressed concern that some students may have been coached on how to prepare those statements. His mother, Beatrice Bhinzi, said she had not been formally informed about the reasons for the withholding.  Attempts to reach Bikita Fashu headmaster Happison Dima and Computer Science teacher Amina Debora Dzoro were unsuccessful. ZIMSEC said it will make a final determination once the school’s submissions and any follow-up enquiries are complete within the stipulated period. 

ZIMSEC has reported improvements in exam security in recent years, citing a reduction in large-scale leaks and cheating incidents, but isolated cases continue to test the system’s capacity to enforce standards and protect candidates’ rights. The council’s approach balances due process for schools and safeguarding the credibility of national qualifications. 

ZIMSEC will review the school’s report and any corroborating evidence; if explanations are unsatisfactory, sanctions can include cancellation of results, suspension of centre registration, or referral for criminal investigation where warranted. Parents and candidates are advised to follow official ZIMSEC communications for updates.