Unions welcome amended matric exam timetable
The National Professional Teachers' Organisation of South Africa (Naptosa) says it is relieved that the matric exam timetable has been amended so that in doesn't clash with the municipal elections.
On Wednesday, the Council of Education Ministers decided to move the start of the finals forward to 27 October.
It was originally scheduled to start on 1 November, the same day South Africans will be voting in the local elections.
Naptosa's Chief Executive Officer Thirona Moodley says it's the right decision.
"It would have been unfair to expect the students to be writing on a public holiday. It would have caused much anxiety, as well as there would have been transport issues for those who are using public transport.
"So right now, we welcome the change in the matric timetable and it would be convenient and more comfortable for our students and parents as well."
Dr. Jaco Deacon, who's the acting CEO of the Federation of Governing Bodies of South African Schools (Fedsas), says the change in timetables is not ideal but understandable under the circumstances.
"Instead of disrupting the Grade 12s during the exams, rather move the date a bit earlier. There's sufficient time to prepare. So we do support the change in the programme."
