An investigation is underway following attempts of cheating by five grade 12 learners across different districts in the North West province.
According to the provincial Department of Education, the candidates who were scheduled to write History paper 1 and Business studies were found with crib notes during a search before the examinations in different incidents.
The department spokesperson Mphata Molokoane confirmed to Newsnote that the three candidates were caught in Bojanala District with Business Studies and History paper 1 notes, one in Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati and one in Ngaka Modiri Molema.
He however said the incident is “not tantamount to cheating, as they were caught prior to writing the exam.”
Molokane added that the names of the schools will not be revealed as this is still under investigation.
Education MEC Viola Motsumi condemned the incident and reminded learners of the consequences.
“I wish to take this time to emphasize to our learners who are caught cheating will be subjected to disciplinary action.
As the North West provincial department we are committed to ensuring that all the learners have a fair and equitable opportunity to perform their best in the examinations therefore copying is a violation of exam rules,” said Motsumi in a statement.
The MEC urged all the learners to focus on their studies and approach the examination halls with confidence to avoid any activities that could jeopardize their results.
Meanwhile, the department said arrangements have been put in place to ensure that all the candidates who fell ill during the exams can write from the hospitals.
The department however did not elaborate more on the matter.
In KwaZulu Natal, a person allegedly presented themselves on behalf of a learner to sit for an exam on 31 October at the Phendukani Full-Service school in Newcastle.
The person was discovered by an invigilator and the matter reported to the police.