More than 220,000 primary school candidates began their national examinations today as the 2024/2025 Primary Leaving Examinations (PLE) officially got underway. The exams, which will run until July 3, were launched at two schools in Kigali by top education officials who emphasized discipline, punctuality, and warned against post-exam vandalism.
Of the total candidates, 120,621 are girls and 100,219 are boys, representing both public and private schools across the country. The exams will run from June 30 to July 3, 2025, following this schedule:
– Monday, June 30: Mathematics and Ikinyarwanda
– Wednesday, July 2: English and Social & Religious Studies
– Thursday, July 3: Science and Elementary Technology
Speaking during the official launch, Minister of State Claudette Irere called for discipline among students, urging them to arrive at examination centers on time and in proper school uniform.
“Students must present themselves in school uniform and be punctual so that everyone can easily identify them as candidates taking national exams,” Irere said.
She also issued a strong warning against post-exam misconduct that has been reported in previous years, particularly acts of vandalism.
“We have previously witnessed students destroy school property after exams, forgetting that others will come after them. Anyone found engaging in such behavior will face serious consequences,” she emphasized.
The Ministry of Education (MINEDUC) called on parents and teachers to play a supportive role during this critical period, ensuring that students are mentally and physically prepared for the exams.
“National exams take place over just a few days. If children are not properly supported, they can easily get distracted. We ask parents to provide everything necessary for their children to perform well,” Irere added.
At Sainte Ignace Primary School in Kigali, one of the national exam centers, candidates expressed confidence and readiness.
“I’m fully prepared for the exam and I will follow all instructions. I won’t cheat or help anyone to cheat,” said Keza Belise, a candidate.
Another pupil added: “We’re well prepared, and I wish the best of luck to all fellow candidates. Based on what our teachers have taught us, I believe we’ll succeed.”
This year’s PLE is being conducted in 1,147 exam centers across the country. The Ministry has reiterated its commitment to ensuring that the examinations are conducted smoothly, fairly, and with integrity.
Photo: NESA
