Matric Learner Arrested During Exam As Suspect In Robbery

The 2023 matric exams are past halfway, but the road hasn’t been smooth, with some candidates facing legal trouble.

Minister of Basic Education Siviwe Gwarube reported that one student was arrested inside the exam hall, suspected in an armed robbery case, leaving them unable to complete their exam.

Additionally, two imposters were caught trying to write exams for others, though the Minister did not disclose where they were apprehended or the consequences for the learners involved.

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The exams have been progressing despite these incidents, with Gwarube noting that 58% of the exams are now completed.

Out of 181 question papers, 104 have already been written, and the department is focused on maintaining exam integrity. Measures have been implemented to ensure a fair experience for every matric learner.

This exam season has also seen other challenges. Protests in Jan Kempdorp, Northern Cape, and Limpopo were managed with the help of SAPS, ensuring that learners could safely reach their exam centers.

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Floods, storms, and power outages affected areas in KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and the Eastern Cape, but the department’s contingency plans allowed learners to complete their exams. In some cases, backup generators were used during power outages.

The Minister also confirmed that confiscated cell phones and crib notes are under investigation, showing the department’s commitment to upholding exam standards.