The KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) Education Department has moved to address severe funding challenges that disrupted schooling across the province, particularly affecting Grade 10 to 12 learners. After weeks of delays caused by union strikes and resource shortages, mid-year exams resumed this week following a R900 million intervention by the provincial government.
Exams Disrupted, Then Resumed
The crisis began when education labor unions, including the South African Teachers’ Union (SATU), initiated a “work-to-rule” campaign, protesting unpaid salaries and insufficient resources. This brought many schools to a standstill, delaying critical exams.
On Wednesday, the provincial government announced the allocation of R900 million to close funding gaps, allowing exams to resume. However, concerns remain over whether the funds will reach schools promptly, as the full amount is expected only in July.
Learners Bear the Brunt
Sbahle Ntsentse, a representative of the Congress of South African Students (COSAS) in KZN, confirmed that exams had restarted but highlighted ongoing challenges. “Many schools, especially in rural and township areas, were severely affected,” Ntsentse said. “Learners walked long distances only to find exams postponed, disrupting their preparation.”
A viral video from a KZN school recently showed frustrated learners protesting the delays, underscoring the emotional and academic toll of the disruptions.
Calls for Accountability
COSAS has demanded accountability from the provincial education leadership. “If the MEC cannot resolve these issues, he should resign,” Ntsentse stated. “We cannot face the same problems during final matric exams.”
The union also expressed solidarity with teachers, emphasizing that educators deserve timely payment for their work.
Revised Exam Schedule
To compensate for lost time, the department extended the exam period, with some tests now continuing after the official school closing date. While COSAS supports the adjustment, concerns linger over whether schools have adequate resources, such as printed exam papers, to proceed smoothly.
Looking Ahead
As KZN works to stabilize its education system, stakeholders are watching closely to ensure the R900 million allocation effectively addresses systemic issues. For now, Grade 10 to 12 learners are back in exam halls, but the province faces pressure to prevent further disruptions in the future.