18-Year-Old Develops ZIMSEC Brain Path Study App

An 18-year-old learner from Chitungwiza has developed an educational application aimed at helping Zimbabwe School Examinations Council (ZIMSEC) Ordinary Level candidates prepare more effectively for their examinations.

Tamudaishe Tsandukwa, an Advanced Level student at Excell College in Chitungwiza, created the application, called Brain Path, to help learners understand examination techniques, improve their answering skills and become more confident before sitting for their ZIMSEC examinations.

Tsandukwa, who turned 18 on 6 July, celebrated his birthday in Arcadia, Harare. Known by the nickname “Seiges,” which he says means “silent inventor,” the aspiring software engineer hopes to use technology to make learning easier for Zimbabwean students.

The Brain Path application provides users with examination-style question papers, suggested answers and guidance on how to structure responses in line with ZIMSEC examination standards. The application is designed to give learners practical experience with the format of examination questions.

Speaking about the inspiration behind the project, Tsandukwa said he realised that many Ordinary Level candidates struggled with examination techniques despite understanding their subjects.

“I came up with this application to help Ordinary Level candidates improve their studies,” he said.

“The application teaches candidates how to answer examination questions correctly and understand the format expected during their examinations. I strongly believe learners will benefit from this application because it also helped me. There were many things we did not know as candidates, and I am glad technology is now helping to lighten that burden.”

The Advanced Level student, who is studying Economics, Business Entrepreneurship Skills and Computer Science, encouraged fellow learners to embrace technology and use it as a tool to improve their education.

“I know some people may be reluctant to embrace technology, but there is no escaping it. This is our generation, and we should be allowed to explore new ideas and use innovation to make learning easier. I have worked hard to ensure this initiative becomes a reality,” he said.

Tsandukwa also credited his parents for supporting his ambitions and encouraging him to focus on his education. He said their guidance helped him avoid drug and substance abuse, a challenge affecting many young people in different communities.

“I can’t thank my parents enough because they have supported me from day one,” he said. “My father has always believed in my vision and understands what I want to achieve in life. I am grateful for where I am today, and I will continue working hard to make both my parents proud.”

Looking to the future, Tsandukwa said his ambition is to study Software Engineering and develop technology that solves everyday challenges. He has already established himself as a website designer and says he has worked with several young influencers and public figures, including musician Ishan, Miss Daisy and radio presenters. Although he hopes Brain Path will receive national recognition, he said his greatest achievement will be helping ZIMSEC Ordinary Level learners improve their examination techniques and perform better in their final examinations.