The matric learner at the Selelekela Secondary School in QwaQwa was allegedly denied access to the examination room by the chief invigilator on Thursday (15/10), during the English first additional language paper 3 examination.

The department spokesperson, Howard Ndaba, said the candidate was allegedly denied access because of outstanding school fees and the matter is being investigated. “The chief invigilator, who is also the principal of the school, has been suspended with immediate effect pending the investigation.”

The deputy principal has been appointed as chief invigilator for the remainder of the National Senior Certificate examinations to ensure stability and protect the integrity of the examination process.

“The affected candidate is currently writing her remaining examinations in accordance with her personal timetable, and psycho-social support has been provided.”

Ndaba said the department had convened an urgent virtual meeting with chief invigilators from all public, private and independent schools to reiterate that no candidate may be denied access to an examination room because of outstanding school fees or any matter unrelated to their eligibility to write, in line with DBE Examination Instruction E06 of 2026.

The department is finalising reports and supporting documentation for submission to Umalusi, through the department of basic education, to request a concession for the affected learner regarding the English examination.

The request aims to ensure the candidate does not have to rewrite the paper in June 2027. However, the concession remains subject to approval.

The department emphasised principals and chief invigilators must protect eligible candidates’ right to write examinations at all times. School fee disputes must never prevent learners from sitting their examinations.

“Non-compliance with examination instructions will not be tolerated and will be dealt with through disciplinary processes.” Ndaba said the department remained committed to ensuring a fair, secure and credible 2026 NSC examination for all 41,009 candidates.

OFM News dg

• Have a news tip to share? Phone or whatsapp the OFM News Hotline: 066 487 1427.