Matric pupils to get their results through SMS line

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SABC has announced that Matric pupils will be able to get their exam results via their mobile phones in the New Year.

Pupils can register by simply SMSing their ID number followed by their exam number to 35658 or *120*35658#.

SMSs cost R3 and USSD rates apply.

The mobile service is a partnership with the Department of Basic Education and it will be available until 31 January.

The matric results will be available on 6 January 2015 except for the Western Cape which will be 7 January 2015.

How to register for SMS and USSD

SMS

• The pupil will send an SMS to 35658
• The SMS will consist of a keyword followed by the ID number and student number.
• The system verifies the keyword, the ID number and the exam number; both numbers must have 13 digits in order to be accepted. The ID number will also be subjected to an algorithm that identifies if the ID number is a valid South African ID number
• After the pupil has successfully registered, they will receive their results on the day of release

USSD

• It is a text-based conversation which allows the user to select multiple-choice answers.
• This is a great way to supply an interactive service to the pupils and to gain various demographic insights from them
• USSD is also an excellent way to get an opt-in for further communication from the consumers
• USSD works on feature and smart phones and allows a company to target every consumer with a handset
• The pupils will dial *120*35658#, put in their ID number and they will get their results per subject
• USSD has what we call resume session function, where our system recognises the number the next time the user dials the string.

Meaning that it knows what was the last question the pupil answered

• The pupils will be given a choice to OPT in or not as we need to comply with POPI (Protection Of Personal Information)
• POPI promotes transparency with regard to what information is collected and how it is to be processed. This openness is likely

to increase customer confidence in the organisation.

For assistance with registration for SMS and USSD, contact us at 011 504 0008.

Bursaries are available from NSFAS for any course of study.

Details: NSFAS call-centre on 08600 NSFAS (0860 067 327); info@nsfas.org.za or www.nsfas.org.za or Department of Basic Education call-centre at 0800 202 933.

For general enquiries and interviews on TV and

commercial radio stations, contact Shanitha Singh, Mobile Media Specialist,

SABC Mobile

Web – www.sabc.co.za/education