BY: SINETHEMBA ZONDI
During a recent session, Minister of Education Matsie Angelina Motshekga, responded to questions from Samantha Jane Graham of the DA regarding the number of absent students during exams since 2020. Graham asked, “Is there a reason why a student would be absent from writing exams?”
Minister Motshekga provided the following data: In 2020, there were 85 absent matric students during exams. The number increased to 140 in 2021, 150 in 2022, and 209 in 2023.
She clarified that the policy recognizes that students may be absent due to illness.
Furthermore, Minister Motshekga highlighted that pregnant female students can write exams if they are healthy.
However, their parent must submit a request to the education department, accompanied by a doctor’s note confirming the student’s capability to write exams.”If approved, the student will write exams at the school’s examination center, where their health will be monitored,” she said.
Minister Motshekga stressed the importance of following guidelines when handling exam papers, even in remote learning settings.
“If a student is granted permission to write, they will do so at the school’s examination centre. The examination center must monitor the student’s health to ensure they can write their exams. It is important that where exams are written, there should be a secure room and security measures in place,” said Minister Motshekga.
Additionally, regulations allow pregnant students to continue schooling without interruption. The Basic Education Laws Amendment Bill aims to streamline this process. If approved, students must promptly return to school after giving birth to resume their studies.
Minister Motshekga reiterated the department’s commitment to supporting students’ education journeys, ensuring that they have every opportunity to succeed.
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