ZIMSEC's New Tracking System Targets Exam Leaks

ZIMSEC has introduced traceable question papers and personalised answer sheets for 2026 public examinations, aiming to curb leaks, as reported by iHarare. The new system will track every paper from distribution to marking, creating a digital trail to deter malpractice after years of exam leaks that have undermined the education system's credibility. However, educators and student unions warn the measures could create logistical bottlenecks and penalise rural schools with weak infrastructure, where internet and electricity are unreliable. They argue that the core vulnerability remains the systemic distrust between examiners and candidates, which no technology alone can resolve. The government must also address underlying issues of corruption and lack of accountability in the examination process. Without these broader reforms, the new tracking system may only provide a false sense of security while leaving the fundamental problems untouched.