Matric examinations started on Monday (October 30) and while it is common for papers to be leaked and pupils to copy during the examination, this year two pupils decided to take it a little further when a part-time student got an “imposter” to sit for their examination on Tuesday (October 31).
The “imposter” at Phendukani Full Service High School in Newcastle was about to write the examination when the invigilator noticed something was amiss and reported it to the principal immediately. The school is one of the best performing schools in the province.
KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Education Mbali Frazer said the matter had been reported to the police.
“We condemn in the strongest possible terms the alleged act of exam irregularity. We have worked hard to sharpen our learners for this exam, and we expect these exams to be free of irregularities in keeping with the oath made by learners,” said Ms Frazer.
“We assure the public our invigilators have been trained and will detect and deal with any irregularity to protect the integrity of the National Senior Certificate (NSC) exams. What has happened at Phendukani is a clear demonstration of this commitment.”
A total of 723 971 full time pupils, 129 064 part-time pupils and 53 217 progressed candidates will take the NSC examination at 6 337 state schools and 552 independent centres. There are 162 papers set up by expert panels appointed by the Department of Basic Education. Pupils with learning barriers and special education needs will be accommodated with adapted questions papers in Braille, large print and audio.
The examination ends on Tuesday December 5, and results will be released on Friday January 19, next year.
