One of the markers tested positive for COVID-19, temporarily putting an end to marking just as it began. 

The Department of Education spokesperson, Howard Ndaba, says the marker has been escorted to the Senorita Nhlabathi Hospital in Ladybrand where she will quarantine. Ndaba assures OFM News that the Department of Health will monitor her progress throughout her 10-day isolation period. Chief markers and those who surrounded her have been notified.

She will return to the marking centre after the quarantine period and a subsequent negative test result, says Ndaba. The venue has since been decontaminated.

Nurses recommended that another marker, who carpooled with her daily during training, should self-isolate for five days. Ndaba says she will return to the marking centre after a negative test result after these five days of isolation to mark again. 

Ndaba says it is not necessary at this stage to call in the help of reserve markers yet. Once the markers are unable to return to the marking centre, the department will discuss the way forward.

OFM News/Shirndré-Lee Simmons