Over 30 000 full-time and part-time candidates will sit for these exams in the Free State, commencing on October 23. The department’s spokesperson, Howard Ndaba, says tight security measures to prevent the possible leakage of question papers and any irregularities have been put in place.

On Wednesday 16 October the first leg of exams kick-started with 2 861 learners in the Free State who did Computer Application and Technology (CAT), and Information Technology (IT). However, with Eskom’s load-shedding these exams’ processes were disturbed at various centres.

Ndaba further says a few learners were affected and will be given an opportunity to rewrite on 28 November.

The Free State says they are targeting a 90% pass rate and 40% bachelor passes this year. Last year the province obtained an 87.5% pass rate, placing it second nationally, trailing with 0.4% to the first-place winners, Gauteng.

OFM News/Marvin Ntsane