South Africa adjusts matric exam timetable for local elections

South Africa’s quality assurance council for education, Umalusi, has amended the National Senior Certificate (NSC) examination timetable to accommodate the upcoming local government elections scheduled for Wednesday, 4 November.

Examinations will be suspended from 3 to 5 November, resuming on Friday, 6 November. Additionally, Monday, 9 November, has been designated as a non-examination day. The decision aims to protect students from potential disruptions caused by election-related activities, such as political gatherings and community protests.

Umalusi CEO Dr Mafu Rakometsi noted that this measure mirrors adjustments made during the 2021 local government elections. The council plans to coordinate with provincial education departments, assessment bodies, and other stakeholders to ensure the examination process remains uninterrupted by political activities.