
Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube has issued a stern warning to matriculants as they prepare for the National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations, which are set to begin on Monday.
Speaking during a media briefing on Sunday, Gwarube outlined her department’s readiness, contingency plans, and the strategies they have implemented to ensure a smooth and secure examination process for both the NSC and Independent Examination Board (IEB) exams.
The minister emphasized the critical importance of maintaining integrity throughout the examination period. She made it clear that the department will not tolerate any form of cheating, underscoring that those caught engaging in dishonest behavior will face severe consequences. Gwarube stressed the need for learners to take personal responsibility and avoid any attempts to undermine the examination process.
“Learners must take personal accountability. They need to pledge that they are not going to cheat,” Gwarube said. “This has a profound impact on your future if you are found to be cheating, and we are not going to tolerate that. We are going to be watching the process hawkishly.”
She also pointed out that cheating not only damages the individual’s future but also compromises the credibility of the entire education system. The department has put in place robust monitoring systems to ensure that all examination papers are handled securely and that any potential security breaches are swiftly addressed.
According to Gwarube, each paper will carry a specific security marker that will help track and verify its authenticity.
In addition to emphasizing personal accountability, the minister reiterated the department’s commitment to ensuring a fair and transparent examination process. She assured the public that strict measures have been implemented to prevent cheating and to maintain the integrity of the exams.
These measures include enhanced security protocols at examination centers, thorough monitoring of the distribution and handling of exam papers, and collaboration with law enforcement agencies to prevent leaks or any other fraudulent activities.
Gwarube also highlighted the importance of the examinations not only for individual learners but for the country as a whole. The NSC exams are a crucial milestone in the academic journey of South African students, as they determine eligibility for university entrance and other post-secondary education opportunities.
Ensuring that these exams are conducted fairly and transparently is essential to safeguarding the value of the qualifications awarded.
The department has also developed contingency plans to address any potential disruptions during the examination period. This includes measures to deal with load shedding, which has been a significant concern for many South Africans, particularly in terms of how it might affect the ability of learners to prepare for and sit their exams.
Gwarube assured students and their families that the department is working closely with Eskom and other relevant agencies to minimize the impact of power cuts on the examination process.
Another key focus of the briefing was the department’s efforts to provide psychological and emotional support to learners during the examination period. Gwarube acknowledged the stress and anxiety that many matriculants may be feeling as they approach this critical stage in their education. She encouraged students to take care of their mental health and to seek support if they are feeling overwhelmed.
“We understand that this is a stressful time for learners, and we want to ensure that they have the support they need to succeed. We have resources available to help learners manage their stress and perform at their best during the exams,” Gwarube said.
The minister concluded by wishing all matriculants the best of luck in their upcoming exams, urging them to stay focused, work hard, and approach their examinations with integrity. She expressed confidence in the measures put in place by the department and reiterated that the education system is prepared to deliver a successful examination period.
With the NSC exams set to begin on Monday, the eyes of the nation will be on the matriculants as they embark on this critical journey. The government’s message is clear: academic integrity is paramount, and there will be no room for dishonesty.
Through collaboration between learners, educators, and authorities, the department aims to ensure a smooth, fair, and transparent examination process for all involved.