More than 400 grade 12 learners in different areas of Gqeberha and Kariega in the Eastern Cape were unable to write their Computer Applications Technology paper today amid floods that affected the area. According to SABC News, this was announced by Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube during the briefing of the Portfolio Committee on Basic Education today.

AFFECTED BY POWER CUTS

During heavy rains that resulted in flooding in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro last night, power lines were destroyed leaving the area in the dark. Gwarube said the candidates needed access to power to be able to write. "Without power, they will not be able to write the exams in a fair manner today in Gqeberha. As the department, together with Umalusi, we have contingency measures in place, such as back-up papers," Gwarube said. Provincial department spokesperson Malibongwe Mtima said the learners who were not able to write the exam will be offered to write on 28 November.

MORE HEAVY RAINS EXPECTED

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued an orange level 5 warning with disruptive rain leading to flooding of settlements, roads and damage to property and infrastructure expected along the coast and adjacent interior between East London and Port Edward, while orange level 6 warning with disruptive rain leading to flooding of settlements, roads, damage to property and infrastructure expected along the coast and adjacent interior between Port Alfred and Mtunzini. Yellow Level 4 warning was issued for the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro, Kouga, Sundays River Valley, Makana and Mdlambe Local Municipality as well Ngqushwa. Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane visited Veeplas township to assess the damage caused by the heavy rains in Nelson Mandela Bay Metro.