52,000 markers to commence marking of matric scripts on 1 December

The Basic Education Department announced it would start marking matric exam scripts on December 1.

The marking period is set to run until the 18th.

Department spokesperson Terence Khala said 52,000 of the country’s best markers would begin work in earnest on Monday.

"We do also call on all our markers to uphold their integrity and to remember that, behind every swipe of that red pen is a life that is looking to be furthered on the other side."

Khala added that the department would rely on quality assurance body Umalusi for moderation.

He said Mathematics Paper Two was of particular importance after public outcry over its difficulty.

"Umalusi, our quality assurance body, will assist us in making sure the rigour of the papers was high, while also looking at where some standardisation needs to be done."