Matric exams: DBE introduces trackers to prevent question paper leaks

The Department of Basic Education (DBE) has introduced GPS trackers on trucks transporting matric exam papers this academic year to guarantee that the sensitive documents are not leaked.

Minister Siviwe Gwarube shared the news on Monday during a media briefing in Skukuza, Mpumalanga. She said the trucks will undergo gruelling checks at each stage of distribution to avoid the costly mishaps that occurred in previous years.

This year has recorded the highest number of candidates registered to write the public Matric exams, totalling over 900,000 learners. The confirmed number of exam centres is 6,955, with 579 of those being independent schools.

Minister Gwarube said the exams are the largest public assessment in the education system, adding that outside of elections, there is no larger event needing logistical coordination. She said the department has prepared all year to mitigate the risks attached to the papers.

"Integrity is not negotiable. It is the cornerstone of the National Senior Certificate, and of public trust in our education system. This year, 6,376 public schools and 579 independent schools will serve as official examination centres - a total of 6,955 centres nationwide."

She added that there are almost 200 marking centres, with more than 40,000 markers, invigilators, and data capturers ready to support the examinations.