Gauteng Matriculants pledge not to cheat in their final exams
Gauteng Matriculants who will be writing their National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations from Tuesday, October 21, have pledged not to cheat nor assist one another during exams sessions.
Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane led the pledge signing ceremony at Hoerskool Vorentoe high School in Johannesburg on Friday, October 17.
Every year, matric candidates are asked to sign two documents: A matric pledge, and a commitment agreement.
The matric pledge is a document signed by the candidate, in which they promise to dedicate themselves to their studies for their exams and do their very best, to follow the rules of the exams, and to report any contravention of the rules that they become aware of.
The commitment agreement spells out the rules in detail, as well as the consequences for breaking them. It is signed by both the candidate and their parent or guardian, so that both acknowledge that they are aware of the rules and the consequences.
MEC Chiloane says the pledge includes a commitment to report wrongdoing. “This is not about being a snitch, it is about protecting the value of your qualification.”
“When someone cheats, they do not just cheat the system; they cheat you by devaluing the very certificate you are working honestly to earn.”
“Every time a thought of cheating crosses your mind look at the educators who have guided you through integrated curricula and new subjects. Consider the parents who have funded your extra classes and study materials. Think of the officials who have worked tirelessly to create fair examination conditions. We have all invested in your success. Honor that investment with integrity,” says Chiloane.
He added that the department is aware of the WhatsApp messages promising students leaked papers.
“Take note that these are scams targeting your desperation. Those social media accounts claiming to sell questions papers are catfishes of criminals aiming to exploit your anxiety. The only genuine preparation you need is the work you have already done, the lessons attended, the notes studied, the past papers practiced.”
The exams are expected to end on Tuesday, November, 27.