Thirteen miss first matric exam in Tshwane West
Eight learners approached officials stating that they were not ready to write, two candidates did not write due to unknown whereabouts and three others were hospitalised due to health issues.
Thirteen matric learners in the Tshwane West district missed their first exam paper on Monday, October 30.
But Gauteng education MEC Matome Chiloane said the first day of the final matric exams had still gone well.
The candidates were supposed to sit for English home language Paper 1 or English first additional language Paper 1.
Chiloane said a majority of full-time candidates still attended.
“About eight candidates approached officials stating that they were not ready to write and two did not write due to unknown whereabouts, which is concerning.”
Chiloane said three were in hospital due to ill-health so were unable to write.
He said however most candidates were present and honoured all rules and regulations as expected.
The MEC urged all candidates to honour their exams and regulations as outlined in the pledge.
“Unwarranted absenteeism is unacceptable,” he added.
Chiloane said the majority of Gauteng districts had no issues in facilitating the writing of the first exam papers.
He said Gauteng recorded a concerning rate of absenteeism among part-time candidates from all districts as well.
“To this end, the department wishes to re-emphasise the commitments which candidates vowed to fulfil by having signed the NSC pledge.”
Candidates are discouraged from transgressing their pledge.
“All learners must always adhere to exam rules and regulations to maintain the integrity of the examinations and their future.”
He said the department was saddened by the loss of a learner in Ekurhuleni.
“We are deeply saddened by a full-time candidate from Unity secondary school in Daveyton, who tragically took her own life by allegedly poisoning herself on Sunday, October 29.”
He also reminded the candidates of the mental health pledge they signed, urging them to reach out for support if required.
“Such structures include Childline, which can be contacted by dialling 116 and the South African depression and anxiety group (Sadag), which is available on all telephonic and online platforms,” Chiloane said.
Chiloane said the department wished to convey its sincerest condolences to her family and the school community at large.
“Learners are urged to use our available structures to express any issues they are facing. Our officials are more than happy to help.
Candidates are also encouraged to honour their commitments to these exams and refrain from being absent,” he concluded.
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