By Phumlani Saul,Nomalungelo Booi and Zikhona Mbongo
THE first day of the 2024 National Senior Certificate examinations starts off on a high note.
Not even severe weather conditions and electricity disruptions in Gqeberha on Monday, 21 October could dampen pupils’ and teachers’ moods.
Pupils were forced to write their English paper one in dark exam rooms in eastern Gqeberha.
Nkosana Ngalo and Thandolwethu Tshazibanzi from a Zanolwazi Secondary School in New Brighton said they wrote their first paper without power.
“The paper was as sweet as chocolate. However, power outages have disadvantaged us. It was dark in the exam room and we had to adapt and pretend as if nothing happened. The power outages have negatively affected us who’re doing CAT. We can’t use our computers,” said Tshazibanzi.
Nkosana said: “We had enough time to prepare for the exams. We wrote our first paper without power. We hope the Department of Education will address the power outages.
Eastern Cape Education spokesman, Malibongwe Mtima said they noted the power outages in numerous schools as well as the disruptive weather conditions.
In Kwadokweza, pupils said they showed the English paper three and Afrikaans paper flames.
Harry Mathibela (17 said he’s expecting an 80% pass mark.
“The paper was easy. I’m confident that I will do well,” said Harry.
Lukhanyo Matshaba (19) said he enjoyed one section, which required them to write an obituary.
“English paper three is relatively easy. I think I will score 75% and above,” said Lukhanyo .
In Kariega, pupils from Nkululeko Secondary School in KwaNobuhle were also excited about the English paper three exam.
Nkululeko Secondary School pupils, Nkosana Ngubeni and Thandolwethu Tshazibanzi say they wrote their first matric exam in the dark. Photo by Nomalungelo Booi
They said the paper was not difficult as they worked hard and were thoroughly prepared for it.
Siyabonga Mayisa (20) said the exam was good and enjoyable
I finished answering the exam on time and I’m ready for the other subjects,” he said.
Xolelwa Cona (18) said: “I love English and I will pass. I want to study journalism.”
Thambekile Klaas (18) said she wants to be a lawyer.
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