Matric Exams 2024: Imposters, Cheating Scandals, and Severe Consequences for Misconduct
The 2024 National Senior Certificate (NSC) matric exams have seen several disturbing incidents of misconduct, including the arrest of two imposters attempting to write on behalf of registered candidates and the confiscation of cheating materials like cellphones and crib notes. Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube, alongside Deputy Minister Dr. Reginah Mhaule, provided an update on the ongoing exams during a media briefing in Cape Town, addressing the integrity issues surrounding the exam process.
A Scandal Unfolds: Imposters and Irregularities in the Matric Exams
As of October 21, the exams have progressed smoothly despite external challenges such as taxi strikes, power outages, and adverse weather conditions. However, the exam process has been marred by incidents of cheating and security breaches. Minister Gwarube revealed that a “small number” of students were caught with cellphones and crib notes, which were promptly confiscated, and investigations are ongoing. The Ministry has warned that students found guilty of cheating will face severe penalties, including a three-year ban from writing future exams.
In addition to cheating, two imposters were arrested for attempting to sit for exams on behalf of legitimate candidates, highlighting the lengths some individuals will go to manipulate the system. Furthermore, one student was arrested during the exam for their alleged involvement in an armed robbery case, disrupting their ability to complete the examination.
Security Concerns and Examination Integrity
Despite the challenges, over half of the matric exams (58%) have been successfully completed, with 104 of the 181 question papers already written. The Department of Basic Education has implemented contingency measures to ensure that students affected by external disruptions were still able to sit for their exams.
Director General of Education, Hubert Mathanzima Mweli, emphasized that security will be tightened, and any student caught participating in exam irregularities would face serious consequences, including being banned from writing exams for three years. This comes as part of a broader effort to maintain the integrity of the examination process and ensure fairness for all candidates.
Eastern Cape Assault Incident Under Investigation
Minister Gwarube also addressed a concerning incident in the Eastern Cape, where five learners were assaulted in the village of eMqhekezweni. While the incident did not occur on school grounds, the Department is working closely with local authorities and justice officials to resolve the matter. The case is being treated seriously at the cabinet level, and more details will be revealed soon.
The Implementation of the Bela Act
In other news, Gwarube confirmed the continued implementation of the Basic Education Laws Amendment (Bela) Act, although some clauses have been excluded. The controversial Act aims to address several issues within the education system but has been met with some resistance. Despite the ongoing protests, Minister Gwarube explained that her absence from the protest march on Tuesday was due to her responsibilities before the NCOP select committee on education.
As the 2024 matric exams continue, incidents of cheating and security breaches highlight the challenges faced in maintaining exam integrity. The Department of Education is taking swift action to address these issues, with arrests made and investigations underway. Students caught violating the exam rules face serious consequences, reinforcing the importance of upholding honesty in education.
Also read: Pretoria High School for Girls Principal Found Guilty of Misconduct by Gauteng Education Department
