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BERNARD SATHEKGE
THERE has been a significant increase of learners both full-time and part-time registered for the exams this year.
Close to a million South African matric pupils registered for the 2022 final exams in all the nine provinces.
According to Department of Basic Education, there has been a gradual increase in the number of full-time enrolments in 2022, as compared to the previous years.
The number of full-time enrolments increased from 733 198 in 2021 to 755 981 in 2022.
This is an increase of 22 783 candidates.
“The increase in learners enrollment for matric this year came out as a surprise. This allays the concern that there would have been a significant dropout of leaners post the Covid-19 pandemic. But that is not the case,” according to DBE Director-General, Mweli Mathanzima.
The number of part-time learners has also increased from 163 965 in 2021 to 167 479 in 2022.
In addition, a total of 193 question papers will be administered at 6 912 examination centres.
These examination centres have been approved for the administration of the October and November 2022 exams.
As part of managing the security of question papers and managing risks, examination centres have been audited and categorized according to their risk profile and will be monitored accordingly during the conduct of the examination.
The DBE states that a total of 52 811 markers are appointed for the marking of the November 2022 NSC Examinations.
This marks an increase of 11 215 markers, compared to 41 596 markers in 2021.
The increase in markers is in keeping with the increase in the learner enrolments.
In a way, the recruitment of more markers will enhance meeting the deadline of marking exam papers on time.
Mathanzima says the DBE liaises closely with all nine PEDs to identify any challenges or security risks in a timeous manner to ensure that no candidate is disadvantaged in any manner and to ensure watertight security of question papers.
“To ensure an irregularity-free examination, the DBE has stepped up its security across all points in the question paper chain, based on a continuous review of all examination processes,” says Mathanzima.
In addition, all learners sitting for the NSC examinations, and their parents will sign a ‘Commitment Agreement’ to maintain honesty and not to participate in irregularities during the writing of examination.
The Commitment Agreement binds the learners and parents to follow the rules relating to the examination.
In line with this agreement, learners and parents are obliged to make any irregularity related information immediately available to the school principal or the DBE hotline.
Further, they are also expected to surrender cell phones and any other related device if there is an allegation of involvement in an act of dishonesty.
Learners are briefed on all the rules and regulations pertaining to the examinations and on the consequences, should they be implicated in irregularities.
Prisoner matric candidates are also ready for exams. Preparations for special needs for people with disabilities are also put ready in place in order for smooth process without any hindrances.
Although all systems look sharp and green to allow this year’s matric final exams, what appeared to be a threat and likely to derail exams is the current problem of Eskom power outages.
Eskom is battling to restore stability to its generation fleet as breakdowns once again skyrocket to record levels, and this could trigger smooth running of matric exams.
However, the DBE says it is continuously liaising closely with Eskom, the security cluster, PEDs and other relevant stakeholders to manage the risks posed by loadshedding and other security related matters.
Mathanzima says that the DBE can confidently state that it is fully prepared to administer the November 2022 examinations based on the principles of fairness, reliability, validity and integrity.
Last year’s matric results came as a surprise when compared to the previous year’s matric results.
The Matric Class of 2021 achieved a national pass rate of 76.4% which is an increase of 0.2% when compared to 2020.
Even though 2021 Matrics were the most impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic, their results showed their resilience. However, education experts calculated that although 2022 has been free from the pandemic such as Covid-19, this year’s matriculants are likely to result in better marks.
Experts says the current late disruptions from Eskom power crisis, will not dealt a major blow as DBE hasbeen aware and surely got contingency plans in place.
The National Senior Certificate (NSC) is a South African Qualification achieved by learners who pass Grade 12 (Matric) in High School.
Students generally complete an NSC in 3 to 5 years, which includes studies done in 3 Grades: Grade 10, Grade 11 and Grade 12.
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