WCED: Two Weeks to Go until End of 2011 NSC

Media Statement by Donald Grant, Minister of Education

There are only two weeks left until the official end of the 2011 National Senior Certificate examinations.

This year's NSC has progressed with no major disruptions or incidents, and I am pleased that the credibility of the entire exam process has not been affected.

These examinations are a huge logistical exercise, and I would like to thank our well-programmed, highly dedicated and committed team for ensuring that each paper has arrived at the correct examination centre on schedule and that there have not been any leakages or irregularities.

Although I know that many of our matriculants are extremely relieved to have completed writing some of the major subjects such as Mathematics and Physical Science, they must still remained focused. Our Grade 12 learners have still yet to write subjects such as Geography, isiXhosa and History.

Examinations are expected to end on 1 December, with Religious Studies and Design Paper. While the majority of the candidates are still writing, there a number of candidates that will complete their examinations today. Candidates taking the Maths and Sciences streams in school (Maths, Physical Science, Life Sciences, Accounting or Economics) and are not writing isiXhosa will complete their examinations today.

Many of these candidates will begin celebrating the end of their examinations at parties around the province, with some of them travelling to areas like Plettenberg Bay and Hermanus for "Matric Rage" parties.

I would like to make a special appeal to all our candidates to celebrate responsibly. They must also exercise extreme caution while driving, be vigilant of other vehicles and pedestrians and ensure that they buckle up and have a driver that is not under the influence of alcohol.

During the 2009 NSC, five our Grade 12 learners died in road-related incidents during the examination period. I am extremely grateful that we have received no reports of any road deaths or serious accidents this year.

Candidates are also reminded that they must be available to write up to 9 December for any eventuality that might occur until the end of the examinations. For instance, if there are any examination paper leakages or lost papers.

However, I am confident that the remainder of the examinations will continue to progress smoothly and without incident, as has been the case up until now.