The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) has about 107 258 full-time candidates and 43 061 part-time candidates, with an increase of 229 candidates compared to last year.
Most of the candidates will start writing their examinations today (October 22), in about 1 004 centres across 15 Gauteng districts.
The GDE’s spokesperson, Steve Mabona, said it is important to note that Gauteng recorded the highest figure of enrolment for the NSC examinations in the country.
“In preparation for the successful examination period, chief invigilators and invigilators for all examination centres have been officially appointed and trained.
“An extensive network of monitors has been established across the province.
“The said monitors are derived from head office, district offices and other stakeholders to ensure the processes relating to conduct, administration and management of the examinations is fair, credible and have integrity.”
Mabona said the department has partnered with law enforcement agencies for the daily securing of question papers and answer books, and to also necessitate a smooth distribution and collection thereof.
- Preparations
“We have also done everything possible in ensuring our learners have been given the best possible advantage to do well in these examinations.
“There were subject-specific interventions implemented throughout the year.
“The Secondary School Improvement Programme (SSIP) was utilised as a major strategic intervention for progressed and high-risk learners.
“The SSIP has been running since the beginning of the year during Saturdays and school holidays to sustain the improved Grade 12 performance over the past years.
“As part of our final push strategy to ensure the preparedness of learners, we also implemented matric revision camps across the province.
“These camps are meant to provide opportunities for intensive study and drill sessions aimed at increased content coverage as well as intensive exam practice and preparation.”
Mabona said the GDE has a standing agreement with ChildLine to assist learners who experience stress due to exam pressure or after receiving results.
Learners can phone ChildLine on their toll-free 0800 055 555 number or 011 645 2000 (during working hours) for counselling assistance.
Parents or members of the community are also urged to use these contact details for learner support.
“The Grade 12 results will be released on January 4, 2019, at schools and will give us a clear indication on our performance as our aim is for learners to compete on an international scale, especially in mathematics, science and technology.
- Best wishes
“We wish all our Grade 12 learners the best of luck and assure them of our full support. Learners are urged to conduct themselves with honesty during the examination process. Cheating may result in a criminal record,” Mabona said.
Gauteng MEC for Education Panyaza Lesufi said: “To all learners, this is an opportunity for you to show the world your capabilities. This should open opportunities for your future endeavours.
“Tears and sweat taste the same but will get you different results. Tears will get you sympathy and sweat will get you change. Best wishes to you all.”
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