Matriculants arriving late for exams due to taxi strike get hour’s grace

Matriculants arriving late for their exams will be given an hour’s grace to complete their papers, the Gauteng education department said on Wednesday morning.

This was due to the national taxi protest that left many commuters – including school learners – stranded.

“Learners who arrive an hour late will still be given an opportunity to write their exams due to the protest,” said the Gauteng department of education spokesperson Steve Mabona.

“Parents are encouraged to assist and make alternative transport arrangements especially for matric candidates.

“All our chief invigilators are empowered to manage such situations including facilitation of necessary concessions. Candidates must ensure that they reach their exam centres.”

Mabona said the department was monitoring the situation and law enforcement agencies had also undertook to be vigilant and will guard against any intimidation that may occur.

According to ward 82 councillor Siobhan Muller, grade 11 and 12 learners driving with their parents on Lynnwood road were subjected to intimidation while on their way to school.

“Learners who were going to write exams were subjected to intimidation in their parent’s cars before some couldn’t go to school to write exams,” Muller said.

Learners are advised to report to their examination centres despite the disruptions.