A “fake letter”, headed “notice of illegal distribution of matric final examination”, is said to be making the rounds claiming that a math paper was leaked in the Eastern Cape and so would have to be rewritten.

The Department of Basic Education confirmed yesterday that the letter in circulation was fake and not issued by the department and no examination paper had been leaked.

Department spokesperson Elijah Mhlanga said: “This information is false. While the so-called circular has our logo, it has no address, contact details or the name of the author. It is clearly designed to cause confusion.”

The department has not yet opened a criminal case as the source of the hoax was not clear but viewed the misleading communication seriously. Mhlanga said: “It has the potential to cause confusion and anxiety among Grade 12 pupils writing their examinations.”

He urged parents, teachers, pupils and department officials to ignore the fake letter and to remain focused on the job at hand. He further gave an assurance that the exams were proceeding well across the country and no circular had been issued regarding any paper rewrites.

Lucky Ditaunyane, senior manager: public relations and communications for Umalusi, the examinations integrity body, said they first saw the hoax letter on Friday and contacted the Department of Education and were satisfied with the department’s explanation.

Mtuzi Mahlambi, KZN Education spokesperson said they had received no complaints regarding the hoax letter.

Mahlambi said that the department was hopeful that they would achieve the 80% pass rate target set for the province.

ANNISA ESSACK