Cape Town taxi violence disrupts travel for matric exam candidates

Amid escalating taxi and gang-related violence in several areas of Cape Town, including Delft, Khayelitsha, and Nyanga, concerns for the safety and transport of learners have surged dramatically, Cape {town} Etc reports.

These safety concerns reached a critical point this morning as thousands of candidates faced the pressures of writing their National Senior Certificate (NSC) English examination.

The Western Cape Education Department (WCED) swiftly reacted when alerted to the unrest via its security networks, promptly notifying examination centres throughout the metro.

In a statement, Western Cape Minister of Education Jaco Londt emphasised the need for vigilance, directing examination officials to closely observe the arrival patterns of candidates.

‘Centres were asked to contact candidates who had not arrived and, where safety or transport challenges prevented them from reaching their registered centre, advise them to report to the nearest examination centre as an emergency alternative,’ Londt stated.

Understanding the gravity of the situation, the WCED implemented measures that allowed candidates facing circumstances beyond their control to arrive up to an hour late after the commencement of the examination, ensuring they could still gain entry into the venues.

Londt expressed relief that, despite the tumult, all candidates who made it to their contracted centres ultimately managed to write their examinations.

He acknowledged the psychological toll on students, saying, ‘While we are relieved that these candidates were able to write, it is deeply unfortunate that they had to experience additional and unnecessary stress immediately before such an important examination. Our candidates should be able to focus on their examinations without having to worry about whether they can get to their examination venue safely,’

In light of ongoing violence, Londt called for calm, urging all involved parties to foster a peaceful environment. ‘Thousands of candidates are currently writing examinations that will have significant bearing on their futures, and they must be able to travel to and from their examination centres safely and without disruption,’ he remarked.

He encouraged candidates to leave home earlier than usual when possible, particularly if reports of transport delays or disruptions surfaced.

For any candidates unable to safely reach their registered examination centres, Londt advised prompt communication with their schools to inform them of their situation and any potential delays.

In a show of gratitude, the WCED extended sincere thanks to officials and school principals who acted quickly to manage the disruptions this morning.

Londt’s remarks highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts in safeguarding candidates’ opportunities:* ‘Their response demonstrates the strength of our collective efforts to support our candidates and ensure that every reasonable step is taken to protect their opportunity to write their examinations,’*

The department assured the public that they will continue to monitor the situation closely, committed to the safety and well-being of learners.

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Picture: @Abramjee / X

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