Shallcross matric pupils allegedly stopped from writing exam to protect school's pass rate

This week, investigations began at Shallcross Secondary School after six matric pupils were allegedly stopped from writing their Mathematics Literacy Paper 1.

The KZN Department of Education (DoE) is investigating allegations that pupils at three schools were prevented from writing NSC examinations to protect the school's pass rates.

This week, investigations began at Shallcross Secondary School after six matric pupils were allegedly stopped from writing their Mathematics Literacy Paper 1.

Sipho Emmanuel Hlomuka, KZN DoE MEC, said this was allegedly in a bid not to compromise the school’s 100% pass rate.

He said they were seriously concerned over reports of matric pupils who were allegedly denied the opportunity to write their National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations at three schools in the province. 

He said in a statement that the other two schools were Thokozamnganga High School in Hillcrest and Ntwenhle High School, in Folweni, near Isipingo.

At Thokozamnganga High School a pupil was allegedly denied the opportunity to write her History examination last week for failing to attend extra classes held on a Saturday. 

Hlomuka said at Ntwenhle High School, a pupil was allegedly denied the opportunity to write the Accounting examination. 

“We condemn the reported incidents, emphasising that no pupil should be denied the opportunity to write an examination as a punitive measure or because of concerns about the school’s overall pass rate. 

“The denial of an opportunity to write an examination is a serious matter that cannot be taken lightly. Extra classes are intended to provide additional academic support to pupils and must never be used as a punitive measure that compromises their right to complete their examinations.”

He said no pupil should be made to feel that their future is at risk because they did not attend an extra class or because they may not achieve a distinction. 

“Every pupil deserves a fair opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge and abilities during examinations.

“The Department will conduct investigations into all the reported incidents to establish the circumstances surrounding the allegations and determine the appropriate action to be taken,” he added.