MBABANE – Over 32,000 learners across the country began their Grade VII external examinations yesterday, marking a major milestone in Eswatini’s education reform journey.
This year’s candidates form the first cohort to sit for the Eswatini Primary Certificate (EPC) under the Competency-Based Education (CBE) syllabus — a system designed to shift learning from rote memorisation to practical, skills-oriented education.
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The CBE framework was introduced through the 2018 National Curriculum Framework, while the last group under the previous Content-Based Education system completed primary school last year.
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According to the Examinations Council of Eswatini (ECESWA), a total of 32,538 candidates are sitting for this year’s EPC examinations. Learners began their assessment with Science Paper 1 and Social Studies Paper 1 yesterday, followed by Mathematics Paper 1 and Health and Physical Education (HPE) Paper 1 today. Tomorrow, they will write Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and Religious Education Paper 1.
Exam Conduct and Warnings
ECESWA Communications Officer Hlengiwe Ndlovu reminded candidates to strictly adhere to examination regulations to avoid any form of malpractice.
“Malpractice can occur before, during, or after examinations. Bringing unauthorised materials, including mobile phones and wristwatches, into the examination room is a form of malpractice,” she warned.
Ndlovu added that acts such as copying from another candidate, using offensive language, or disobeying invigilator instructions all qualify as breaches of examination rules.
She further explained that penalties range from mark deductions and subject disqualification to, in severe cases, nullification of results.
Education Reform Ahead
Government is expected to roll out the CBE syllabus to secondary schools in 2026 through a new four-year programme.
The initiative aims to introduce a standardised curriculum, enhanced teacher training, and improved learning facilities to further develop learners’ practical and creative skills.
According to the Ministry of Education, the reform also extends to Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and non-formal education sectors, with a focus on industry-specific skills and early-grade learning development.
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