Matric exams progressing smoothly despite some minor disruptions - Education minister Gwarube

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Today marks the 12th day of the matric exams which commenced on 21 October 2024.

“I am delighted to report that so far, the administration of this year’s NSC exams has been progressing well, showcasing the strength and resilience of our systems.

“These exams mark a critical milestone for our learners, who have spent years working toward this moment, and I am pleased to say that, so far, our systems are holding up well under the pressure,” Gwarube said.

The minister held a press briefing on Wednesday to provide an update on the progress of the NSC exams, among other issues.

She emphasised that the department has taken comprehensive measures to safeguard the integrity of the exams, ensuring that every learner receives a fair, consistent, and supportive experience.

Turning to statistics so far, Gwarube announced that 104 of the 181 question papers have been written as of today, that represents 58% of exams. The exams are now over the halfway point.

Five schools in the Jan Kemdorp area were affected by a taxi strike, however, all candidates from the schools were able to write their exams.

There was also protest action in Limpopo. However, with the help of the South African Police Service, matric candidates were escorted to the school and were able to write.

KwaZulu Natal, Eastern Cape, Limpopo and Mpumalanga faced disruption caused by inclement weather. The department activated contingency plans and learners were able to write and complete their papers.

Power outages were experienced in some areas and back-up generators were relied on for learners to complete their exam papers.

There was one learner who could not finish their paper as they were arrested inside the exam venue as a suspect in an armed robbery case.

The minister told the media briefing that cellphones and crib notes were found and confiscated from a very small number of learners and that this was being investigated. Additionally, two imposter candidates were detected and arrested for attempting to take an exam.

“Our operational systems have been designed to preempt and resolve challenges quickly and effectively. From the distribution of exam papers to the management of security and supervision, our dedicated teams are actively monitoring each phase of the exam process.

“We are leveraging technology to maintain real-time oversight, which enables us to detect any irregularities and address them before they can substantially impact the examination process,” she said.

For example, Gwarube said any suspected security issues with exam papers are immediately escalated, allowing the department to take swift action to uphold the credibility of the exams.

“While we are encouraged by the overall success of the exams thus far, we are also mindful of the need to adapt to unforeseen challenges, particularly those related to the environment and climate.

“Recent storms in areas like Bushbuckridge and flooding in parts of the Eastern Cape have impacted some learners’ ability to sit their exams as scheduled. In response, the department quickly implemented alternative arrangements, including the use of alternative venues and the rescheduling of exams to later dates,” Gwarube said.

The minister said these decisions were made in collaboration with local authorities to ensure minimal disruption to learners' lives.

“We recognise that the final leg of exams is crucial, and we are committed to providing every learner with the opportunity to complete their exams without unnecessary obstacles.

“I commend the resilience of the affected learners and their families, and I appreciate the dedication of our teachers and officials who worked to support these alternative arrangements in such a challenging time,” Gwarube said.