In 2019, more than 13 000 undocumented matric learners were able to sit for the last exam of their 12-year schooling career.
It was during this period that the Makhanda High Court received information of a large number of grade 12 learners that were unable to obtain documentation from Home Affairs for various reasons.
While it is crucial for learners to have their identity document (ID) in their possession during this exam period, in a statement, the KwaZulu Natal Education Department Minister, Mbali Frazer announced:
The department requests all examination centre managers to allow matric candidates to write their examination papers even if they do not yet have their IDs from the Department of Home Affairs.
Eastern Cape Department of Education spokesperson, Malibongwe Mtima has also confirmed that the Eastern Cape will also follow suit, however, other Provincial Education Department’s have not yet confirmed whether or not this is an option for their matric learners.
According to reports, in instances where the matric learner cannot provide a birth certificate, they may bring alternate proofs of identity such as an affidavit or sworn statement by the parent, caregiver or guardian. According to Frazer, learners are required to submit their IDs within six months after having sat for these exams.
The Department of Basic Education confirmed that there are more than 900,000 full-time and part-time candidates that are registered in all nine provinces to sit for the exam, and it has been revealed that this is an increase compared to the matric class of 2021.
Prior to the learners sitting for this exam, the Education Department had shared that it is not anticipating any disruptions of the matric exams by teachers.
South African Democratic Teachers Union General Secretary, Mugwena Maluleke said the union is proud of its teachers sacrificing their time to prepare learners for their exam.
