Minister of Education, Science and Technology Bright Msaka has expressed optimism that this year’s Junior Certificate of Education (JCE) examinations will post improved results owing to “a smooth and well-coordinated start to the national examinations”.
The minister said yesterday during a monitoring visit to Lilongwe Girls Secondary School, one of the centres administering the examinations, that the examinations started without major challenges nationwide, reflecting the level of preparedness among learners, teachers and examination administrators.
“I am pleased that the examinations have started on a good note without any major challenges. This is a clear indication that students are well positioned to perform better this year,” said Msaka.
The minister said government had put in place measures to ensure candidates sit the examinations in a conducive environment, enabling them to concentrate on their papers.
He expressed hope that this year’s pass rate would surpass last year’s 77 percent, stressing government’s continued commitment to improving education standards and learning outcomes.
good note. | Nation
Msaka also commended teachers, school administrators and examination officials for their role in preparing learners and ensuring examination materials were delivered to centres on time.
In her remarks, Lilongwe Girls Secondary School headteacher Loyce Kumtamula said the school was fully prepared for the examinations, with all arrangements made to ensure a smooth process.
She said 160 candidates are sitting for the JCE examinations at the school and expressed confidence in their performance.
“The process has been orderly so far, with learners adhering to examination regulations and supervisors carrying out their duties professionally. There is good coordination between students and supervisors,” said Kumtamula.
She noted that the JCE examinations remain a critical milestone in Malawi’s education system as they determine learners’ progression to senior secondary education.
The 2026 JCE examinations officially started on Monday this week, with 162 967 candidates registered. Administered by the Malawi National Examinations Board (Maneb), the exams are scheduled to run until June 10, 2026.
There are 614 915 candidates registered for this year’s examinations comprising Malawi School Certificate of Education (MSCE), JCE and Primary School Leaving Certificate of Education (PSLCE). Of these, 316 764 are female and 309 428 are male.
