By Admore Mbonda in Kariba
The government has ordered schools to stop blocking students from registering for the 2026 ZIMSEC Ordinary Level exams over unpaid fees, as the 20 March deadline approaches.
A Gemination survey in Mashonaland West found many candidates unregistered because schools are demanding full fee clearance before accepting exam payments.
Parents who raised money specifically for registration are being turned away.
“No child should be barred from registering for ZIMSEC exams,” said Taungana Ndoro of the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education. He urged school heads to accept registration payments regardless of outstanding balances.
Permanent Secretary Moses Mike Mhike reinforced that government policy protects pupils from such actions, as the fee contract is between the school and parent.
While acknowledging schools face financial pressure, the ministry warned that continued refusal to accept registration payments will attract administrative action.
Parents are urged to register their children before the deadline and keep proof of payment.
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