There is no guarantee that matrics writing their finals from today will make it to their exams on time, if using the train to get to school.
But Metrorail said it would do its best to ensure that trains operated, technicians expedited repairs and sufficiently communicated developments.
Spokesperson Riana Scott yesterday said: “We recommend they travel at least an hour earlier (excluding normal extended travel time) to ensure they minimise the chance of arriving late at examination venues.
“Pupils are requested to consult our passenger information channels for service status.”
Today at least 52000 pupils started their exams with first language papers. Western Cape Education MEC Debbie Schäfer previously said she, along with Transport and Public Works MEC Donald Grant, had relayed their concerns to public transport operators, including Metrorail.
Schäfer said candidates may be admitted into an examination room within one hour of the exam starting, but would have to complete the exam in the same time as other candidates.
Scott said yesterday the regional manager regularly met Grant.
“We committed to alert both ministries in case of extended delays. We support their call on other public transport operators to assist pupils during contingencies to ensure candidates are transported to exam centres should the need arise.”
Meanwhile, well wishes have poured in for matrics.
“We wish all pupils well who will be sitting for the examinations and call on them to stay focused and not to be distracted from the task at hand.
“The sacrifices and extra effort they have had to put to prepare for the exams must be jealously guarded, so that they achieve their objective,” said South African National Civic Organisation spokesperson Jabu Mahlangu.
Schäfer said: “I wish all the Grade 12s the best of luck. I sincerely hope that we will not have to disqualify any candidates this year.”
She warned cheating could result in being banned from writing the NSC for up to three years, as well as prosecution if a pupil is found to be involved in leaking papers.