NECTA Clarifies Misleading Reports on Form Four Students’ Status

The Ministry of Information, Culture, Arts, and Sports has issued an official clarification following a misleading report published by the media outlet Mwananchi. The headline, which stated that “309,986 students’ whereabouts are unknown,” was found to be inaccurate. The Information Department (MAELEZO) and the National Examinations Council of Tanzania (NECTA) have now provided the correct context regarding the status of students progressing through the secondary education system.

According to the clarification, the students referred to as “whereabouts unknown” are not missing but include individuals who did not report to school after being selected to join Form One in 2022, those who failed exams including the Form Two examination in 2023, students who left school for reasons such as truancy or illness, and others who chose to study abroad. The misrepresentation in the media report caused unnecessary alarm among the public, prompting the Ministry to provide accurate figures.

It is important to note that the students sitting for the Form Four examination this year are drawn from those who were originally selected to join Form One in 2022, with a total of 907,803 students. Out of these, 695,639 students successfully completed Form One and took the Form Two examination. For the 2025 Form Four examination, scheduled to run from 17 November to 5 December, a total of 595,816 candidates will participate.

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The Ministry emphasized the need for media outlets to ensure accuracy in reporting educational statistics, particularly when information about students is concerned. Publishing misleading figures not only creates unnecessary panic among parents and communities but also undermines public trust in both educational institutions and the media. The Information Department reminded journalists that responsible reporting requires verification of facts before dissemination.

NECTA, as the body responsible for administering examinations in Tanzania, works closely with schools and education authorities to monitor student progression and attendance. The clarification reinforces that the majority of students are accounted for, attending schools, and preparing to sit for the national examinations in a timely manner.

Parents, guardians, and stakeholders are encouraged to rely on official statements from NECTA and the Ministry for updates regarding student numbers and examination schedules. The Ministry’s statement highlights the commitment of both the media and educational authorities to maintain transparency and accuracy in the dissemination of information about Tanzania’s education system.

The Form Four examination period will begin on 17 November 2025 and continue until 5 December 2025. NECTA and the Ministry assured the public that all students registered for the examination are properly accounted for and that official information will continue to be communicated through credible channels.