The National Assembly of Zimbabwe has approved tougher penalties for exam malpractice, raising the maximum punishment to up to five years in prison.
The changes were made during debate on amendments to the Zimbabwe School Examinations Council Act, increasing penalties from the initially proposed two years to Level 14 on the standard scale, which includes a fine, imprisonment, or both.
Lawmakers also agreed to introduce an appeal mechanism allowing candidates or examination centres dissatisfied with ZIMSEC decisions to escalate their cases to the responsible minister, and if necessary, to the High Court.
The expanded list of offences now includes impersonation of candidates, unlawful possession of examination materials, and forgery of results.
Kuwadzana MP Charlton Hwende pushed for the stricter penalties, citing concerns over organised exam leaks, a position supported by Education Minister Torerayi Moyo.
Proportional Representation MP Ellen Shiriyedenga successfully introduced provisions allowing appeals against ZIMSEC board decisions.
The bill has now been referred to the Parliamentary Legal Committee for review to ensure it aligns with the Constitution
