Head of Department sends message to NSC candidates regarding alleged leaks

Statement by Brian Schreuder, Head of Department, Western Cape Education

I am aware of the announcement by the Department of Basic Education (DBE) that some National Senior Certificate (NSC) examination papers have allegedly been leaked.

This places much stress on our candidates.

It is not yet clear where the source of the leak is. The DBE and the Hawks are investigating it as a matter of urgency.

Currently, there is no indication if any papers will need to be rewritten, and, if so, whether it will be done in certain contained areas or examination centres, districts or provinces.

As we await further communication in this regard, I want to advise our candidates to stay calm.

They must please keep focusing on the papers that they still have to write, apply their minds, and do their best to concentrate on the content of those papers. Every examination paper counts. Every mark counts.

I also want our candidates to be assured that the authorities, including the UMALUSI Council for Quality Assurance in General and Further Education and Training, will ensure that the NSC results are credible in the end.

If, and only if, it becomes necessary for our candidates to rewrite a paper, as suggested in media reports, they can be assured that it will be of a similar standard to the first one and our candidates will be informed timeously so that they can prepare for it.

If this does happen, our candidates can draw comfort from the fact that they had already written such an extensive examination and that this could be to their benefit as they would then know what to expect.

In the meantime, we do not want our candidates to worry about the reports on the leaks and rewrites.

This must not distract them. As soon as information becomes available, we will share it with candidates immediately.

Candidates can also contact our Safe Schools Toll Free number on 0800 45 46 47 should they wish to talk to trained professionals about their anxiety or stress.

Our candidates and these examinations are our priority right now.