The results for Junior Certificate of Education (JCE) examinations for 2011/12 academic year show a marginal increase of candidates who have passed when compared to the previous year.

According to Malawi National Examination Board (Maneb), 118,448 student s wrote the examinations and 79,194 students have passed, representing 66.43 percent pass rate.

Maneb spokesperson Gerald Chiunda said there is an increment of 0.43 percent pass rate from last year.

"Last year, the pass rate was 66.43 percent and this year is at 66.86 percent. This means that there is only 0.43 percent pass rate increment," he said.

Reacting to the development, Executive Director of Civil Society Education Coalition Benedicto Kondowe said the 0.43 percent increment is a complete mockery for the country because it has indicated the country's failure in the education system.

"It is a pity to have only 0.43 percent increment. This is a complete mockery to our country and on the same note an awakening call for us

Malawians to trace the reasons behind the small percent increment," he said.