The Ministry of Education, Arts, and Culture says it is open to any investigation following allegations of unfairly awarding top performers in the national examinations.

Messages circulating on social media accused the institution of corruption and favouritism, suggesting that the top-performing candidates include the children of high-ranking officials, implying an unfair advantage.

The Education Ministry refutes allegations of results tampering, emphasising its unwavering commitment to transparency, integrity, and the provision of quality and inclusive education.

In a media statement, the Ministry's Executive Director assured the public that the national examinations were conducted under strict protocols, designed to maintain the credibility and fairness of the process.

Sanet Steenkamp acknowledged that three of the top 20 performers are children of two senior staff members.

These learners, she stressed, have consistently excelled academically over the years.

She said national examinations are conducted under strict regulations, indicating that the final question papers are printed and packaged outside the country and dispatched directly to regional offices. 

The ministry also confirmed that no learner, including the top performers, had access to these papers in advance, adding that there are robust systems in place to ensure transparency.

Steenkamp says the ministry's administrative processes adhere to globally recognised standards, as confirmed by Cambridge International, the accreditation body.

Cambridge has declared that the 2024 national examinations were credible and met established quality assurance standards, the ministry says.

While the Ministry acknowledges the concerns raised by the public, it also sympathises with the learners mentioned in the allegations and the harm these claims may have caused them. 

As part of its mandate to deliver quality education and foster national development, the executive director stated that the Ministry is equally obligated to encourage all learners, including staff members, to strive for academic excellence.