BY PHUMELELE GAMEDZE
MBABANE– Thousands of learners across Eswatini will once again have the opportunity to sit for Form V June examinations after more than a decade, following the Examinations Council of Eswatini’s (ECESWA) decision to revive the examination session from June 2027.
The return of the June examination series is expected to provide learners with a second chance to improve their results, complete outstanding subjects and secure admission into tertiary institutions much sooner, eliminating the need to wait until the traditional November examinations.
The landmark decision comes after extensive consultations with education stakeholders and members of the public. ECESWA said the revival reflects its commitment to building a more responsive, flexible and inclusive examination system that meets the evolving needs of learners while maintaining internationally recognised assessment standards.
According to the Council, the decision has also been influenced by the growing number of universities and colleges that have adopted semester-based admissions. With many tertiary institutions now offering multiple intakes each year, learners who rewrite or complete subjects in June will have an improved opportunity to enrol without losing valuable time.
Registration for the inaugural June 2027 examination session will be conducted from 15 February to 31 March 2027. English oral examinations are scheduled for 17 to 28 May 2027, while written examinations will take place from 14 to 18 June 2027. Results are expected to be released in July 2027, allowing successful candidates to prepare for the next available tertiary intake.
The first June examination session will cover Mathematics, English Language, First Language siSwati and Religious Education. ECESWA has also revealed that preparations are already underway to introduce Physical Science and Biology in the June 2028 session, with additional subjects expected to follow in response to stakeholder demand.
To ensure the smooth administration of the examinations, ECESWA will establish selected examination centres across the Hhohho, Manzini, Lubombo and Shiselweni regions instead of using every secondary school. The Council further confirmed that candidates writing the June examinations will pay the same examination fees as those sitting for the November session unless otherwise communicated.
The June examinations will be open to all eligible candidates, particularly those wishing to rewrite subjects to improve their grades. Education stakeholders believe the move will reduce delays in academic progression, improve access to higher education and provide learners with greater flexibility in planning their academic futures.
The revival of the Form V June examinations represents one of the most significant developments in Eswatini’s education sector in recent years. By restoring an examination session that many learners and parents have long advocated for, ECESWA is expanding opportunities for academic success and reinforcing the country’s commitment to quality, accessible and learner-centred education.
(Courtesy Pic)
