SMOOTH START DESPITE THREATS

MANZINI – Despite threats by teachers to destabilise operations in schools, some school heads declared a smooth start to the writing of examinations for Form Vs in Manzini.

Yesterday, International General Certificate for Secondary Education (IGCSE) candidates sat for their first papers in History, which is an optional subject, and English Language Paper I, which is compulsory. The head teachers confirmed that the start was without incident in schools situated in towns. Candidates were settled well on time. It is worth mentioning that during a recent extraordinary meeting held by the Swaziland National Association of Teachers (SNAT) members last month, it was resolved that teachers would make operations abnormal in schools, and sensitise pupils about the SNAT President, Mbongwa Dlamini’s dismissal. The destabilisation of operations in schools, according to the teachers, would be done legally through effecting go-slows in schools as one of the measures to defend their president, who was fired by government last month. Mbongwa was dismissed after he was found guilty on all 109 charges of absenteeism, preferred against him by the Teaching Service Commission (TSC).

Meanwhile, during a visit to Mjingo High School yesterday, Head teacher Philile Dlamini told this publication that the school was overall well prepared for the examinations and candidates started on a good note. “Invigilators were well trained; we set up the exam properly and instructions were read clearly to candidates. They know of their expectations and they came geared to write this morning. Above and beyond, they started well. I was there to monitor them the first 15 minutes and they looked settled and calm. It really took off on the right footing,” the head teacher said. She assured that the candidates would excel because she believed that they were well prepared, with the teachers committing themselves early in the mornings and during holidays. She said she was confident that they would produce excellent results in the coming year.

Commitment

In the same breath, St Theresa’s High School pupils were also found seated calmly during the commencement of the morning paper, which started at 9am. Although the Head teacher, Albert Sihlongonyane, could not avail himself for an interview due to examination commitments, he granted this publication permission to take pictures of the candidates. Invigilators were seen reading instructions to the candidates at the start of the exams. Security was also visible at the school entrance to ensure that learners were writing without any disturbances.
Dino Dlamini, the Manzini Central High School Head teacher, said they were also prepared for the external examinations, which were progressing smoothly in the morning.
“Last week, we had a prayer service at the school to prepare learners for the exam. Even teachers worked tirelessly in ensuring that learners attended Saturday classes and for this, we appreciate them immensely for their devotion,” said the head teacher.

He implored parents to give pupils the opportunity and chance to study at home, while also monitoring that they were studying and not playing with their cellphones. He said parents should encourage learners to pray as this was a critical time, where they were faced with spiritual attacks.

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