Ethiopia is in the final stages of preparation for its pivotal 12th-grade national examinations, set to commence on June 30 and run until July 15, 2025. Authorities affirm that extensive measures have been implemented to ensure a fair and secure testing environment, building on past experiences to enhance educational quality.
The Educational Assessment and Exams Services (EAES) has spearheaded comprehensive preparations. "We have thoroughly analyzed the strengths and weaknesses of previous 12th-grade examinations to ensure robust readiness for the upcoming session," stated Dr. Eshetu Kebede, Director-General of the EAES.
A key strategy to combat cheating and uphold academic integrity includes the centralization of exam question administration and a significant shift in venue: students taking paper-based exams will now sit for them exclusively within university campuses. This aims to create a more controlled and secure testing environment.
Dr. Eshetu also highlighted rigorous measures against illicit aids. "We are focusing on strict protocols that will lead to the complete or partial disqualification of any student found in possession of cheating materials," he warned.
Adding to the preparedness, Professor Alemayehu Teklemariam, a lecturer and researcher at Addis Ababa University, confirmed that students are actively engaged in practice sessions for both paper-based and online exams. "Students taking the online exam are conveniently practicing from their current locations, ensuring they are well-prepared for the digital format," Professor Alemayhu noted. He also stressed that lessons learned from last year's experience have informed this year's enhanced preparations.
This year, over 608,000 students are slated to take the national examination. While the majority will undergo traditional paper-based testing at universities, approximately 150,000 students will take their exams online. These digital assessments will be conducted at designated computer facilities across universities, health and teacher training colleges, government and private schools, and technical and vocational colleges, underscoring Ethiopia's dual approach to exam administration.
The nation watches as these comprehensive preparations unfold, aiming to ensure that the 2025 national examinations accurately reflect students' achievements and uphold the integrity of Ethiopia's education system.
