The Citizen (Dar es Salaam)
16 July 2008
editorial
After a thorough study of President Jakaya Kikwete's proposal early this year to look into the relevance of the Standard Four and Form Two national examinations, experts in the Ministry of Education and Vocational Training have come out with a very pragmatic decision - that the exams be retained, but those who fail will not repeat classes, be discontinued or reseat the examinations.
Moving the ministry's estimates for the 2008/09 fiscal year in the National Assembly on Monday, minister Jumanne Maghembe said those who fail Standard Seven examinations will be put on special programmes to enable them cope with subjects in which they did not do well while they continue with their studies.
The Form Two examinations will similarly remain, but emphasis will be placed on exams that help to determine those who need remedial courses to rectify their weaknesses.
The remarks by Prof Maghembe have helped to clear the confusion regarding the two examinations amid calls from some quarters for them to be scrapped. It has been argued that the exams pose serious hurdles for many pupils and students who are forced to discontinue their education when they fail.
We believe that the proposal has been made in good faith - that only those who excel be allowed to proceed with their studies as a way to improve education standards in the country. But by doing so, only a few will manage to cross the hurdles, with many abandoning their education at an early age.
Basing on the vigorous response by members of the public, the Government's call to make contributions towards the building of ward secondary schools, many people are keen to have their children to at least complete 'O' level secondary education. It would therefore be frustrating for them to discontinue those who fail Standard Four or Form Two examinations.
But it would be an even bigger sin if the promised remedial actions for those who fail will not be put in place to help weaker children perform better as they move higher on the education ladder.
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