By Johnathan Paoli
As matric learners spend the weekend preparing for their final exams that start on Monday, education MECs across the country have stressed the importance of not cheating and ensuring that the exams are fair.
Grade 12 learners and education officials signed a pledge on Friday that committed them to the National Senior Certificate examination code of conduct.
Gauteng education MEC Matome Chiloane was at Ahmed Timol Secondary School in Azaadville, Krugersdorp, where he aimed to reinforce ethical standards among Gauteng’s 189,693 preparing for the exams.
He said the commitment was crucial in combating examination irregularities and fostering a culture of honesty.
“This pledge is not just a formality; it is a commitment to ensure a fair examination process,” he said.
“Reflecting back to 2013, the Council of Education Ministers (CEM) made a critical decision and established a crucial guideline that all candidates preparing to sit for the NSC examination must commit by signing a pledge that reinforces their adherence to the examination code of conduct.”
He urged candidates to conduct themselves with integrity.
Highlighting the severe consequences of cheating, Chiloane warned that any dishonest behaviour during the exams could result in immediate removal from the exam room and nullification of results.
He explained that students found guilty of misconduct would be barred from future examination cycles, underscoring the long-term repercussions of such actions.
The MEC also cautioned against misleading information circulating on social media, including false question papers.
In KwaZulu-Natal, education MEC Sipho Hlomuka was at Siyamukela High School in the Amajuba District.
“Please act ethically and do not jeopardise the credibility of exams. We wish you well,” he said.
He further urged learners not to copy from each other and to rest well for their first exams.
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