The Minister of Education for the KwaZulu-Natal province, Sipho Khumuka, ordered an immediate investigation into allegations that some students from Ntwentle High School were prohibited from taking the 'Accounting' examination.
The Minister instructed the department head to conduct a thorough, impartial, and prompt investigation to ascertain the circumstances of the incident. This inquiry will determine whether any rules, regulations, or codes of conduct were violated and will recommend appropriate measures. All involved parties will be given the opportunity to speak.
The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education emphasized that obstructing examinations undermines fairness, access to education, and the integrity of the assessment process. The Department stated that it will not tolerate any actions that deprive students of their right to be assessed.
Furthermore, the department reminded school principals of their duty to ensure that every eligible student can take exams under fair conditions and without hindrance. Protecting students' rights and maintaining professional standards among school leaders and teachers remains a priority.
Parents, guardians, and students were advised to report any attempts to prevent an exam from the relevant district office or the department's hotline. The Department promised to report the results after the investigation is complete.
Director suspended from duty
Meanwhile, in the Free State province, a director was suspended after allegedly preventing a graduate from taking an exam due to unpaid school fees. The Free State Department of Education intervened in the situation, and the student was subsequently allowed to continue taking the exams.