DBE ‘must reconsider’ appeal against release of cheating matric pupils’ results
An education activist has urged the Department of Basic Education to reconsider its decision to appeal a court ruling in favour of matrics impacted by a cheating scandal during the 2022 final exams.
A probe by the Department of Education in Mpumalanga found that pupils at several schools in the province had paid teachers up to R1,500 to join WhatsApp groups on which answers for maths and physical science were posted while exams were in session.
This led the department to decide to withhold the results of more than 400 matriculants.
A court later ordered the department to release the results of all implicated pupils.
Education activist Hendrick Makaneta believes the department should prioritise restorative measures addressing the root causes of cheating rather than taking a punitive approach.
“The appeal undermines the DBE's commitment to learner well-being and academic success. Investing in resources to support learners, enhancing teacher training, and improving examination processes is crucial to preventing future incidents,” Makaneta said.
Makaneta wants the department to consider the long-term consequences of the appeal.
“This approach also sets a worrying precedent, potentially discouraging learners from seeking help and support when needed,” he said.
“As the DBE navigates this complex issue, it is imperative to consider the best interest of the children. These learners are engaged in the most difficult struggle of creating a future for themselves amidst adversity.”
ALSO READ
