The Gauteng Department of Education said more pupils are writing maths and science this matric exam.
There is, however, a slight decrease in pupils writing commerce-related subjects. The province registered the second highest number of candidates – 153 973 Grade 12 pupils in total, second to KwaZulu-Natal.
Alan Wilke, the principal of Rand Park High School, said there is an air of excitement and anticipation among pupils as they contemplate life after high school, but that there is also the element of stress and uncertainty that is typically associated with final exams.
“The [preliminary examinations] have given them an idea of what to expect and we have encouraged pupils to use any stress they may be feeling to their advantage and as a motivator to put in a little extra effort during the exam preparation period,” Wilke said.
The National Senior Certificate examination started on 19 October and ends on 29 November this year and the department said it has done everything possible to provide the best chance for each pupil to do well.
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