education
Matric Exams Set to Commence Smoothly on Monday
All systems are set for the matric exams on Monday. Over 717,377 matriculants will begin their 2023 National Senior Certificate (NSC) exams at 6,898 centres today. SANews reports that Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga addressed the media, noting that this figure represents the aspirations and dreams of Grade 12 learners. The number of candidates has seen a slight decrease of 34,626 compared to last year, mainly due to more students completing their qualifications on time.
The number of part-time learners has increased from 168,631 in 2022 to 181,143 in 2023, reflecting an increase of 12,512. The examination involves 207 question papers, 72,500 invigilators, and 52,500 markers.
Umalusi has approved all question papers for the October/November 2023 exams, focusing on security to prevent paper leaks. Security measures have been enhanced across all nine provinces following an audit by the State Security Agency.
Provincial Education Departments (PEDs) have implemented standard operating procedures, trained storage point managers in security protocols, and established specific collection times for question papers to prevent early access. Each PED now maintains an irregularity committee to anticipate and mitigate crises.
Also read: A Fresh Beginning for Dr. WK du Plessis School
To address potential load-shedding challenges, PEDs and schools have devised contingency plans, including backup generators. The recent Computer Applications Technology (CAT) and Information Technology (IT) Paper 1 exams were conducted with minimal power issues, and there are backup papers in case of power interruptions.
The National Assembly passed the Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Bill. This bill serves to address key challenges within the education system. The bill introduces measures to enhance access to education and create a child-friendly environment, aligning with international treaties. It harmonises the powers of School Governing Bodies (SGBs) with the directives of provincial Heads of Department (HOD) to prevent discriminatory practices and promote inclusive language policies.
The government also collaborates with Provincial Education Departments to improve school infrastructure delivery.
Also read:
Picture: X / DBE_SA
Follow us on Google News.
