Right to write final examination denied to matric pupils
School refused for matriculants to write their final examination
DREAMS of attending tertiary institutions were crushed for three matric pupils from Nkandla after they were barred from writing their matric exams.
Nondumiso Nontobeko Masango (20), Samkelisiwe Mkhanazi (20) and Busisiwe Thandeka Majola (23) from Bhilibana High School retreated behind close doors after hearing the distressing news, while their angry parents are demanding answers.
The girls reportedly registered to write their exams along with other pupils earlier this year.
However, only days before examinations commenced they were told to go back home as their names did not appear on the 2017 list of matriculants.
Speaking to the ZO on Tuesday, devastated father Mhlonipheni Masango said in attempt to find answers they have been sent from pillar to post by the school and the department.
‘We feel like we have been buried alive. The Department of Education has crippled our kids’ future,’ he said.
Masango said he now fears his daughter might commit suicide as she has secluded herself from everyone.
‘What disturbs us now are rumours that our kids want to committee suicide as they are confused, hopeless and demoralised,’
‘They were not even given psychological counseling to prepare for the traumatic stress and depression they are going through. Now if they end up committing suicide, who will be accountable?’ questioned Masango.
ALSO READ: What to do if you did not pass matric
Parents seek answers
A letter of demand was forwarded to the provincial office to address the matter.
‘We will not allow our kids to be scapegoats of the public servants who did not want to do their job. We will fight tooth and nail for the rights of our children,’
Parents have demanded answers from the department within 14 working days.
‘Failing this we will take this matter to the office of the Public Protector and seek legal advice for lawsuits,’ said a parent.
• Late update: The Department of Education will allow the pupils to write the remaining subjects now; and the ones they have missed, in February next year.
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