The Chronicle
By Nokuthaba Mathema
11 June 2013
THE Zimbabwe School Examinations Council has not yet paid some markers for last year’s examinations because Treasury has not released the money.
A total of $1,5 million is owed to thousands of examiners.
Although the Ordinary level markers received their full payment, some of the Grade Seven and Advanced level examiners are yet to be paid.
In an interview on Friday, Zimsec director Mr Esau Nhandara said despite the outstanding marking fees owed to last year’s markers, preparations for the marking for this year’s June examinations were in progress.
“The Government understands the need to run examinations smoothly and it is our hope that funds will be released soon so that A-Level and Grade Seven examiners are paid their outstanding money.
“The preparations for the marking exercise for this year’s June examination are well on course,†said Mr Nhandara.
The markers were supposed to be paid between 90 cents and $1,20 per script.
Recently, Education, Sport, Arts and Culture Minister David Coltart said he would find out from Ministry of Finance when the money would be paid.
The marking of last year’s examinations was delayed as the examination body was waiting for Treasury to release the money to pay the markers.
Marking only commenced after Cabinet ordered Zimsec to use its own resources. Over the years markers and the examination body have clashed over delays in paying them.
The June examinations started on Monday last week and are ending on the 21st of this month.