Families consider legal action against the department of education

Two matric pupils from Mondeor High School in Johannesburg remain without their final Visual Arts results five months after completing their exams, blocking their progression to university. The Gauteng Education Department has informed the families that the students must rewrite their Practical Assessment Task (PAT) exams, despite claims from the pupils and their teachers that the assessments were submitted and moderated. The students, including national karate champion Aiden Arendse, insist they met all requirements for certification. The families argue that the delay has derailed their children’s futures. Ayush Maharaj, who aspired to study law at the University of Johannesburg, said the uncertainty has left him demotivated and unable to move forward. His mother, Anthea, and Aiden’s family have called for accountability, stating the teacher was also surprised by the missing results, as he had resubmitted the work as requested. The Gauteng Education Department referred the issue to the National Department for review. The families have received official letters demanding a retake, sparking outrage and prompting them to consider legal action for what they describe as an administrative failure. Both students claim they submitted their practical assessments on time, with evidence to support their case. The delay has left them in limbo, unable to secure university placements or pursue further education. The situation highlights broader concerns about administrative inefficiencies in South Africa’s education system, particularly regarding the handling of matric results and assessments.