Education ministry to help pupils without IDs ahead of national exams

The Ministry of Education, Arts and Culture says it will help pupils without valid identity (ID) documents to ensure they are able to write their Grade 11 and 12 national examinations.

This counters social media reports saying the government has barred pupils without IDs.

According to a circular issued by the ministry, full-time candidates have been advised to bring valid original documents, such as a driving licence or a voter’s card as proof of identity.

The ministry says it will also accept cards issued by full-time schools for full-time candidates.

Acceptable cards must include the pupil’s name, date of birth, identity number, and a recent photograph.

The ministry says while it is mandatory for pupils to present proof of identification before being allowed to write exams, those without such documents would need to complete a verification of identity form.

This form will be available for pupils who are not in possession of an ID, pupil’s card, driving licence, or voter’s card.

Pupils who can prove they have recently applied for an ID will also be permitted to sign the form.

“Candidates claiming they are not yet 16 years old must be verified against their date of birth on their admission permit.

“Full-time candidates whose identity cards have been lost or destroyed and can demonstrate that they have recently applied for a new identity card will also be accommodated,” the ministry says.