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With only six exams left and celebrations in sight, Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga has breathed a sigh of relief. The final matric exams of 2023 have run smoothly, she declared, thanks to the combined efforts of the department, provinces, schools and, most importantly, the pupils themselves.
The NSC examinations commenced on Monday, 30 October 2023 with government saying that over 717 377 full-time candidates and 181 143 part-time candidates in the public education system were registered to write the final examinations across 6 898 centres nationwide.
They've tackled 225 nationwide, and the finish line is just three days away.
READ: Pupils told they're unfit to write matric exams because they would embarrass their school
Addressing the media in Pretoria on Sunday, Motshekga said:
But amid the congratulations, a note of caution emerged. "Pens down" parties, where pupils celebrate the end of exams with often excessive alcohol and risky behaviours, have become a worrying trend.
READ: Matric pupils ask for calm as they prepare for exams amid protests, crime
"We've seen disturbing incidents on social media," Motshekga lamented.
"So, as the final papers are written and the weight of exams lifts, let's remember that celebrating is great, but safety comes first. Let's ensure these young minds, who've persevered and achieved so much, can celebrate responsibly and step into their future with bright, healthy smiles," she said.
