The GDE has strongly rejected what it describes as misleading and sensationalist online reports suggesting that the integrity of the National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations in the province is under threat.

The reports, based solely on a statement issued by the Democratic Alliance, allege widespread corruption in school security tenders and claim the situation could compromise the NSC examinations. They also accuse Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi of failing to curb corruption within the department.

GDE spokesperson Steve Mabona dismissed the allegations as baseless and irresponsible, stating that they amount to a deliberate attempt to cast Premier Lesufi in a negative light.

ALSO READ: Gauteng Education department affirms non-discriminatory school admissions

Mabona said the reports present a “chain of allegations” built on hearsay, with no credible evidence and no effort made to seek comment from the department.

He warned that circulating unverified information during the examination period is both reckless and damaging.

According to the GDE, since the start of the NSC examinations, there has been no breach of security at any point that could compromise the integrity or administration of the exams.

“All storage and distribution points have been allocated adequate security in line with norms and standards,” Mabona said.

ALSO READ: Gauteng Education terminates partnership after allegations of sexual assault

He added that no question papers or scripts have been reported as compromised and emphasised that all exam materials are handled exclusively by GDE examination officials, not external service providers.

“It is therefore unfortunate and irresponsible for anyone to opportunistically share information that questions the integrity of the NSC examinations without any basis,” Mabona said.