The Department of Basic Education has become aware that the Matric Mathematics Paper 2 has leaked.

Initial indications are that the paper became available in the early parts of Monday morning, hours before the paper could be written.

The origins of the leak are not clear as yet but the matric candidates who had access to the question paper appear to be located in the Limpopo and Gauteng provinces.

The Department verified the content of the question paper and found it to be the same as the question paper that was to be written at 9am.

The Department of Basic Education is investigating the matter to establish the extent of the leak. Early sources point to the confinement of the leakage to a few learners located in these two provinces.

The investigating team is gathering evidence and a report will be submitted shortly. The Department will enlist the support of the Law Enforcement Agencies to assist with the investigation.

The Department will investigate this matter fully and thoroughly and will utilize the mechanisms it has at its disposal which are part of the examination protocol to identify learners that may have had access to the paper. An appeal is made to all candidates to remain focused on the examination papers that are still to be written and be assured that the culprits that are at the centre of this despicable act will be dealt with harshly. Anybody with information regarding this matter must contact the Department of Basic Education and your anonymity will be guaranteed.

The Department of Basic Education remains committed to ensuring the credibility and integrity of this important public examination.

Issued by Department of Health, 16 November 2020