Bloemfontein - Despite challenges experienced during the third quarter, the Free State Department of Basic Education is ready and confident that the matric exams will go smoothly.
"The department prides itself in producing quality results and we are confident that this year's results will be even better, despite challenges such as the teachers' strike and long holidays due to the FIFA World Cup this year," MEC Tate Makgoe said.
The MEC said they have done all necessary security checks and comprehensive arrangements in ensuring there are no question paper leakages. "The printing and packaging of question papers are done under camera surveillance and will be distributed timeously."
He said 28 505 full time learners will be sitting for the National Senior Certificate examinations, with 2 037 part time repeat candidates, and 4 900 ABET Level 4 learners. About 318 examination centres have been registered across the province for the upcoming exams.
Department spokesperson Howard Ndaba said they expect all officials administering exams to display high levels of professionalism to assist the department in producing credible examination results.
He added that no misconduct of any form or cheating will be tolerated during the exams, as they will be dealt with accordingly.
The MEC wished the Class of 2010 well and called on all stakeholders to offer their support to reach the 80 percent target set by the department. He urged learners to use the remaining time to work hard and achieve their potential during the upcoming exams.
