/ 16 July 2007

W Cape matrics are yet to write mid-year exams

Matric pupils at about 50 schools in the Western Cape are yet to write their mid-year exams because of the recent teachers’ strike, provincial education minister Cameron Dugmore said on Monday.

”Although various schools have been affected differently by the recent public-service strike, I am most concerned about matric learners, who have not written exams at all at about 50 high schools,” he said in a statement.

He urged the schools concerned to start examinations soon so that they can be completed by August 8.

Despite this, Dugmore said reports from various provincial education management and development centres indicated that the reopening of schools on Monday went ahead smoothly.

”This morning it was back to normal for all our 960 000 learners in both high and primary schools. I am confident that our teachers are committed to ensure that our learners get the best support they need as we approach the matric and final-year exams.”

To make up for time lost due to strike action, recovery measures will include introducing winter schools, extra classes and providing extra learning support materials, Dugmore said. — Sapa