11 October 2006
The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education strongly condemns the public
lamentations of some matric examination chief invigilators that they cannot
talk to the media.
At a recent examinations briefing about invigilation procedures,
invigilators were reminded that they should not talk to the media about
examination irregularities as the Department has a designated spokesperson, who
will deal with media queries.
This is not a new policy but a practice that exists in all departments,
governments, teacher and trade unions and business and companies across the
globe. Even the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) and media houses
have designated spokespeople. It would be chaotic if all employees started
communicating with the media; no company or organisation will take that risk as
inaccurate, misleading information can be extremely harmful not only to the
organisation but also to the public.
The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education also adheres to the matric
examination guidelines of the National Intelligence Agency. A reporting line
exists should chief invigilators find irregularities during the
examinations.
The matter has been blown out of proportion and we regret that this
Department has been singled out for following a standard procedure.
Enquiries:
Christi Naud�
Tel: (033) 355 2453
Cell: 083 262 8829
Email: christin@kznedu.kzntl.gov.za
Issued by: Department of education, KwaZulu-Natal Provincial
Government
11 October 2006
Source: KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education (http://www.kzneducation.gov.za)
