Digital Screening for aspirant Candidates
By Francis Maingaila ♥️
Lusaka, Zambia24 -- (24-4-2026) -- The Examinations Council of Zambia (ECZ) has introduced an online system to facilitate the digital screening of aspiring candidates ahead of the 2026 General Elections, as part of efforts to streamline the verification of academic qualifications required by the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ).
ECZ Executive Director Dr. Michael M. Chilala said the system has been developed to ensure smooth confirmation of Grade 12 certificates or equivalent qualifications for individuals seeking elective office in the August 13, 2026 polls.
Speaking on Friday, April 24, 2026, Dr. Chilala said the initiative is aimed at improving efficiency and accessibility in the verification process, which is a legal requirement for all aspiring candidates.
He said Zambia will go to the polls on August 13, 2026, adding that all candidates must submit proof of academic qualifications confirming possession of a Grade 12 certificate or its equivalent.
Dr. Chilala explained that in order to qualify for a Grade 12 certificate, a candidate must pass at least six subjects, including English, with at least one credit, or five subjects including English with at least two credits at one sitting.
He further noted that General Certificate of Education (GCE) and foreign qualifications are only considered equivalent if they meet the same grading criteria.
The ECZ has developed an online platform called the “2026 Election Confirmations” SelfService Portal, which has already been deployed and will be officially active from Monday, April 27, 2026 to Monday, May 11, 2026.
Dr. Chilala said the system has three categories: candidates with results from 1998 to date, those with results from 1997 and earlier, and those with equated foreign qualifications.
He stressed that candidates must use the correct section when accessing the system to avoid errors during verification.
According to ECZ, candidates with results from 1997 and earlier, as well as those with accumulated results, are required to upload their certificates or statements of results together with a copy of their Green National Registration Card (NRC).
Those with results from 1998 to date are only required to upload a copy of their Green NRC. All documents must be submitted in PDF format through the appropriate fields.
Dr. Chilala said although the system has already been deployed, the official verification window remains April 27 to May 11, 2026.
He said the system was developed internally by ECZ as part of efforts to allow candidates to complete the process from the comfort of their homes or offices.
Once verification is completed, candidates will be able to download and print confirmation letters, while the Electoral Commission of Zambia will have access to verified records within the system.
In terms of payment, Dr. Chilala said applicants can pay through mobile money or card payment via the platform.
He stated that the confirmation fee remains K100 per certificate or statement of results, while the confirmation letter costs K30, adding that these charges have remained unchanged since 2016.
Dr. Chilala assured stakeholders that ECZ has 10 service centres nationwide to support candidates who may face challenges during the process.
He said the commission remains committed to ensuring a smooth, reliable and cost-effective verification process to support the electoral process and safeguard its integrity ahead of the 2026 General Elections.
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