Optimism ahead of Umalusi approval of matric results

THERE is a sense of optimism concerning the credibility and fairness of the 2020 matric exam results, despite irregularities and the leak of matric papers.

This as quality assurance body Umalusi will next Monday announce whether it approves the results.

The matric 2020 exams were embroiled in paper leaks while some candidates were found with crib notes.

Department of Basic Education (DBE) spokesperson Elijah Mhlanga said: “Investigations into the leaked papers are not completed yet.

“It was a multi-pronged investigation, one part by the National Investigative Task Team, another by a private investigator and a third element by the Hawks.

“Investigations generally continue even after results are released.”

Every learner’s script was marked but the results of candidates implicated would be withheld until investigations had been concluded. The names of the candidates will be passed on to Umalusi.

Mhlanga said the department has presented its evidence-based report to Umalusi and the report would be made available to the public at a later stage.

“The report is all the work the department has done to support learners in the period under review.”

Umalusi spokesperson Lucky Ditaunyane said the statement they will release on February 15 will outline all the decisions taken regarding the approval of the exam results and factors that led to the decisions.

This includes mark adjustments made in the various subjects, leaked papers and disruptions to schooling due to Covid-19.