Department of Basic Education (DBE)
By Karabo Marifi
The Department of Basic Education (DBE) is investigating allegations that the 2024 matric results were leaked online before their official release. Reports suggest that a Johannesburg-based company, Edumarks, offered students early access to their results for a fee of R100. In response, Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube has enlisted the Hawks and State Security to probe the potential breach.
Allegations of Premature Access
The controversy emerged when Edumarks allegedly provided matriculants with their full results, including subject breakdowns and percentages, ahead of the scheduled announcement. The company charged R99.90 for this service. Social activist Yusuf Abramjee highlighted the issue on social media, questioning the integrity of the examination process and calling for accountability. 
Department’s Response
Minister Gwarube addressed the media, expressing serious concern over the alleged leak. She emphasized the importance of maintaining the integrity of the examination system and confirmed that law enforcement agencies, including the Hawks and State Security, are actively investigating the matter. Gwarube stated, “If we’ve been victim of a cybercrime, then we will deal with it through state security and the Hawks.” 
Impact on Examination Integrity
The DBE has assured the public that the potential leak occurred after the verification of results, indicating that the core integrity of the examination process remains intact. Minister Gwarube clarified, “The breach seems to have happened only at the tail end that pertains to the verified results that have already been finalised.” She further noted that the department is assessing its systems to prevent future breaches and will implement consequence management if internal faults are identified. 
Official Release Schedule
Despite the allegations, the DBE has proceeded with its planned schedule for releasing the matric results. Minister Gwarube is set to announce the official results later today, with individual results becoming available to students on Tuesday. Approximately 833,000 candidates sat for the 2024 National Senior Certificate examinations. 
Public Reaction and Concerns
The alleged leak has sparked public outcry, with concerns about the security of the examination process and the potential exploitation of students. The Foundation for Education and Social Justice’s Hendrick Makaneta described the situation as “deeply troubling” and called for a thorough investigation to ensure transparency and accountability. 
Previous Incidents
This incident is not isolated. In 2020, there were reports of matric exam paper leaks, leading to arrests and investigations by the Hawks. An individual was arrested in connection with the leaking of the 2020 Mathematics Paper 2. The DBE, along with law enforcement agencies, conducted thorough investigations to address the breaches and implemented measures to prevent future occurrences. 
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