MINISTRY OF TECHNOLOGY AND SCIENCE PS ASSURES EVELYN HONE COLLEGE STUDENTS THEY WILL SIT FOR THEIR EXAMS.By Mike Mwendachabe/David Chibwili Ministry of Technology and Science Permanent Secretary Dr Brilliant Habeenzu has assured all Evelyn Hone College students who were omitted from the November December final examinations that they will be given an opportunity to write their exams in April next year under a special arrangement.
The omission of several students from the examination lists caused widespread concern, with many pointing to delays by the Evelyn Hone College examinations office in submitting names to TEVETA on time.
Speaking during an engagement meeting with the college management, TEVETA officials, the Evelyn Hone College Students Union also known as ECHOSU, and affected students, Dr Habeenzu stressed that government does not want students to be inconvenienced in any way, especially on matters that affect their academic progress.
He emphasized that President Hakainde Hichilema has shown strong support for Evelyn Hone College, evidenced by his two visits to the institution, which he said reflect the President’s commitment to creating a conducive learning environment.
Dr Habeenzu announced that all affected students will write their exams as first attempters, not as deferred candidates, ensuring that their progression to second year, third year or graduation remains intact.
The Permanent Secretary took a firm stance on accountability, stating that disciplinary action will be taken against staff members responsible for the omission. He described the lapse as incompetence that cannot be tolerated in an institution of learning, stressing that such mistakes compromise students’ futures.
He further urged students not to resort to protests, noting that demonstrations are draining and stressful for learners who should instead be focusing on their education.
Dr Habeenzu also issued guidance that the examination register must be made available to all students at least one month before examinations so that the TEVETA LDMS portal can capture all necessary data correctly and on time.
The college management and TEVETA have been given up to Friday to submit a detailed report explaining how the omission occurred and outlining corrective measures to prevent a recurrence.
Affected students expressed deep frustration over the ordeal.
“We waited for an entire year, enlisted, and followed all major protocols relating to examination registration only to be told on the day of the exam that our names were not submitted,” said Zie Fokwen, a Diploma in Business Administration student.
Final year Journalism and Public Relations student, Mercy Habanyama described the situation as heartbreaking, saying that being denied the chance to write after months of preparation left many students emotionally drained.
📸 Mike Jovic Mwendachabe