Gauteng matric exam marker dies after contracting COVID-19

A Gauteng woman, who was a matric exam marker has died from COVID-19, less than two weeks after the marking process got underway.

The 59-year-old was based at the Jeppe High School for Boys marking centre and had been marking isiXhosa question papers.

“It is with great sadness that we confirm the passing of one of our markers. Initial reports indicate that the marker was on Tuesday January 12 found unconscious by our centre manager from Jeppe Boys marking venue at her accommodation,” said acting Gauteng education MEC Jacob Mamabolo on Thursday, 14 January 2021.

Mamabolo said that the centre manager had grown concerned when the woman failed to show up for marking. The marker, who tested positive for COVID-19 was subsequently admitted to hospital but later died on Thursday.

The education department said certain measures have since been taking, including decontaminating the marking centre as well as providing counselling to fellow markers and the woman’s family.

“Accordingly, the group of markers who were in contact with the now-deceased marker were tested on Tuesday and released from the marking venue while waiting for results. The marking centre was immediately defogged and sanitised,” the department said.

The marking of five million matric exam papers is set to conclude on 22 January 2021 and amidst all the challenges the department has faced, including markers backing out at the last minute, the acting MEC has thanked them nonetheless for doing a sterling job.

“We call on everyone to continue to observe the Covid-19 protocols aimed at reducing the spread of this deadly virus by regularly washing hands, sanitising and maintaining social distance,” Mamabolo said.

KZN matric exam markers die from COVID-19

The latest tragedy comes after KwaZulu-Natal also saw the deaths of two matric exam markers, who succumbed to COVID-19.

This prompted calls by unions to have the marking process put on hold. The basic education department had released a set of guidelines and directives aimed at limiting the spread of COVID-19 at matric exam marking centres.

Meanwhile 25 matric exam markers in KZN have tested positive for COVID-19.

“All 25 employees are receiving medical attention and have since been released from their duties at the marking centre. In addition to this, one of the markers has since tested positive at a hospital when she had gone for a voluntary test,” the department said on Thursday.