We had exam papers before the exam – Mpumalanga matrics

Matric pupils confirmed they had been in possession of the second Mathematics paper on Monday, June 22 – a day before they sat for the exam – Lowvelder reported.

According to documentation, Matrics sought outside help after the paper that had been drawn up by the Mpumalanga department of education was leaked. Help was, however, denied by the person who had been approached.

After the exam the following day, the pupils confirmed the paper they wrote was identical to the one that had been made available. The pupils confirmed the first paper had been leaked as well.

Department of education spokesperson Jasper Zwane said the dates set for the Mathematics papers were, however, set for June 4 and 8.

The department denied the allegations of leaking and said nothing had been reported or identified.

It did, however, not respond to the question on how it was possible that some Matric pupils only wrote the second Maths paper on June 22.

In response, Zwane said the department’s security system was second to none, effective and that there was no way a Grade 12 paper could have leaked.

“Since 2009 the province has improved its system and is on record to have managed the external examination highly effectively with integrity and credibility.

“This has on a number of occasions been confirmed by the Department of Basic Education and Umalusi, which is the quality assurer for management of the conduct in external examinations,” Zwane added.

The department requested anyone who alleged to the contrary to come forward.

Mpumalanga has made headlines in the past for leaked exam papers but seems to have slightly moved in the right direction after Premier David Mabuza announced various interventions that would be implemented in 2010.

An informed source, however, said incidents like this continued to happen. The source added it was alleged the papers were distributed from the KaMagugu district office.

It furthermore came to light that papers for the record examinations had already been made available at R200 each.

The department also did not respond to the above-mentioned allegations.

Last year, the national Department of Basic Education said the year-end Matric exams progressed well, despite minor incidents reported in some areas.

Speaking to The Citizen, departmental spokesperson Elihjah Mhlanga said among the incidents reported, included pupils who was caught with crib notes, pupils arriving late for the exams, while others arrive without Identity Documents (IDs).

Read more:  Matric exams progressing well despite minor incidents

– Caxton News Service