Grade seven pupils warned against engaging in examinations malpractices

Mungwi District Education Standards Officer (DESO) Musa Mulemwa has issued a stern and unequivocal warning to grade seven pupils across the district against engaging in any form of examination malpractice. Speaking during a recent graduation ceremony in the region, Mr. Mulemwa stressed that academic integrity is paramount and that the Ministry of Education remains resolute in its quest to stamp out dishonest practices at all levels of the education system. Mr. Mulemwa noted that early-stage examinations, such as the grade seven national assessments, form the foundational building blocks of a student's academic journey. He cautioned that cultivating shortcuts and dishonest habits early in life compromises not only individual academic development but also the broader credibility of Zambia's educational credentials. Education authorities have increasingly focused on tightening supervision and enforcement measures ahead of examination periods to ensure a level playing field for all candidates. The warning comes amid heightened national efforts by the Examinations Council of Zambia (ECZ) and regional education offices to monitor testing centers closely. Stakeholders, including school administrators, teachers, and parents, have been repeatedly urged to play an active role in counseling learners against the temptations of cheating. Educational experts point out that preventing malpractices requires a concerted community approach, shifting the cultural narrative from mere score-chasing to genuine comprehension and skill acquisition. Local education authorities have reiterated that any pupil, teacher, or invigilator found complicit in facilitating examination leakages or irregularities will face severe disciplinary and legal consequences. The Ministry continues to roll out sensitization campaigns in rural and urban districts alike, ensuring that messages regarding integrity reach even the most remote learning institutions. As examinations draw closer, the pressure remains