No cheating, matrics warned

2005-10-05 19:01

Zinkie Sithole

Nelspruit - Mpumalanga education department has issued a stern warning to invigilators and pupils who intend to cheat during this year's matric exams that start on Thursday.

The province's 2004 matric exams were marred by cheating, which prompted the department and the examination watchdog, Umalusi, to launch a full-scale investigation.

Release of the exam results had to be postponed for weeks while authorities were trying to get to the bottom of the matter.

The department eventually declared the results of 843 pupils null and void.

Mpumalanga education's Thomas Msiza said on Wednesday the department had ensured that all question papers were kept in a safe place to avoid any leaks.

Msiza said: "We are not expecting anyone to cheat and those who do will face the consequences."

Cheating teachers suspended

Last year, the department's investigations found that some teachers helped pupils cheat by giving them answers and sight of exam papers.

"We have suspended those teachers from invigilating for two years," said Msiza.

The teachers were fined R3 000 after a disciplinary tribunal found them guilty.

Msiza said that pupils found guilty of cheating would be given a chance to rewrite the affected subjects this year.

"We felt that taking a year from their future was enough punishment," he said.

Meanwhile, Grade 12 pupils in Limpopo have been urged to apply for financial help from the government to further their studies.

Musina local municipality spokesperson Phumudzo Makharamedzha said on Wednesday pupils should apply before they finished their exams.

"The municipality can offer them money for accommodation, tuition or study material," said Makharamedzha.

- African Eye