The 2026 external examination season in Eswatini has commenced smoothly, with no major incidents reported as learners began writing their papers. A total of 80,062 candidates have registered for the 2026 national assessments, according to the Examinations Council of Eswatini (ECESWA). This year's examination programme includes various assessments such as the Eswatini Primary School Assessment (EPSA), Lower Secondary Checkpoint Assessment (LSCA), Eswatini General Certificate of Secondary Education (EGCSE), Eswatini Prevocational Certificate of Secondary Education (EPCSE), and International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE).
Schools across Eswatini had stepped up preparations ahead of the examinations, including training invigilators, briefing learners on examination regulations, and conducting workshops aimed at preventing malpractice. The EGCSE has the highest number of candidates, with 28,924 registered, followed by the EPCSE with 23,002 and EPSA with 17,394. A further 4,909 candidates are registered for IGCSE, while 4,781 are registered for LSCA.
The Examinations Council of Eswatini reported that the 2026 timetabled national assessments commenced on September 28 with the Lower Secondary Checkpoint Assessment, while EGCSE practical and oral examinations had already begun. The timetabled EGCSE examinations commenced with Additional Mathematics and Information Communication Technology (ICT).
At schools visited by reporters, the opening papers were reported to have proceeded without disruptions. At St Theresa’s High School in Manzini, Form V candidates were found writing their papers under the supervision of invigilators. Headteacher Albert Sihlongonyane said the school had conducted workshops for learners and invigilators ahead of the examination period.
The workshops at St Theresa’s High School focused on examination procedures, expected conduct, and the consequences of breaching examination regulations. Additional sessions were also held for candidates who missed the initial workshops to ensure that all learners received the necessary guidance.
Other schools, including Swazi National High School and St Francis High School, also reported a smooth start to the examinations. Headteachers at these schools attributed the success to the preparation and workshops conducted for learners and invigilators.
Schools have also placed emphasis on ensuring that candidates understand their timetables to avoid missing examination papers. With the examinations underway, candidates are now expected to complete their papers according to the timetable.
Key points
- A total of 80,062 candidates have registered for the 2026 national assessments in Eswatini.
- The EGCSE has the highest number of candidates, with 28,924 registered.
- Schools have reported no major incidents on the first day of the examinations.
