Government Limits Number of O and A-Level Subjects to Strengthen Learning Quality
…Recently there was an A-Level student who scored 56 points, sparking controversy on social media
The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has announced tighter enforcement of subject limits for Ordinary and Advanced Level learners, capping O-Level subjects at a maximum of nine while maintaining three principal subjects at A-Level starting this year.
The policy shift is aimed at promoting deeper understanding of core learning areas rather than encouraging learners to accumulate excessive subjects, in line with the Heritage-Based Curriculum which is being fully implemented this year.
The move follows widespread public debate sparked by the exceptional performance of Pamushana High School student Mukudzei Ziveyi, who sat for 12 A-Level subjects in the 2025 examinations and amassed an unprecedented 56 points. While his achievement drew admiration, it also raised concerns that such extremes could place unnecessary pressure on learners and distort academic priorities.
Clarifying Government’s position, Ministry Director of Communication and Advocacy Mr Taungana Ndoro said the subject cap is a deliberate measure to safeguard quality education outcomes.
“The ministry has instituted a clear limit to ensure depth of learning, quality instruction and credible learner outcomes. Learners are allowed a maximum of nine subjects at Ordinary Level and three principal subjects at Advanced Level under the Heritage-Based Curriculum,” he said.
Mr Ndoro explained that the policy encourages mastery of essential subjects, reduces learner burnout and ensures consistency across schools nationwide.
“This approach promotes meaningful competency development while aligning all learners with a manageable and standardised curriculum framework,” he said.
Previously, Government subsidised 55 percent of examination fees for candidates sitting up to seven O-Level subjects and three A-Level subjects, with learners covering the full cost of any additional subjects. Those exceeding the recommended limits often bore heavy academic and financial burdens.
In interviews following his results, Ziveyi revealed that preparing for 12 subjects demanded long study hours, limited lesson time per subject and special timetable arrangements approved by the Zimbabwe Schools Examination Council to avoid clashes.
Mr Ndoro emphasised that the three-subject A-Level policy also reflects expectations of universities and colleges, which typically require a maximum of 15 points for entry into most degree programmes.
He further dismissed claims of grade inflation, insisting that national examinations remain credible.
“Zimsec applies rigorous quality assurance processes, including standardisation, moderation and post-marking reviews. Improved pass rates are a result of better teaching, learner commitment and targeted ministry interventions, not lowered standards,” he said.
The ministry says its focus now is on strict compliance while supporting schools and learners to achieve excellence within the approved academic framework.
