KZN schools bar matrics from exams to protect pass rates

The KwaZulu-Natal provincial government has intervened in a dispute at three schools over the denial of matric students the right to sit their National Senior Certificate (NSC) exams. Education Minister Sipho Emmanuel Hlomuka expressed concern over reports involving eight pupils from Thokozamnganga High School, Shallcross Secondary School and Ntwenhle High School.

At Thokozamnganga High School, a learner was allegedly barred from writing her History exam last week as punishment for missing a Saturday extra classes session. At Shallcross Secondary School, six students were prevented from taking the Mathematics Literacy Paper 1, with officials claiming their performance might threaten the school's aim of a 100% pass rate. The issue arose following an incident at Ntwenhle High School where a pupil was allegedly denied the chance to write the Accounting exam.

Hlomuka denounced these incidents, stating that no student should be denied an exam as a disciplinary measure or to safeguard a school's overall pass rate. He emphasized that extra classes are meant to give pupils extra academic help and should not be used to punish them. He added that no learner should feel their future is at risk because they did not attend an extra class or because they might not get a distinction.

The department promised to look into all the reported cases to understand the situation better and decide on the right action. It also pledged to offer support to restore the affected pupils' confidence and emotional health, helping them continue their exams in a supportive setting.

Hlomuka emphasized that school performance targets should not take precedence over students' educational rights and well-being. The department warned that if it finds misconduct, it will take internal disciplinary action against those responsible. The department reiterated its dedication to preserving the integrity of the NSC exam process, fairness, and respect for every candidate.