Education activist Hendrick Makaneta has urged Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube to provide clarity regarding consent before the publication of matric results. This follows the department's decision to release matric results using learners' exam numbers rather than their names, a move seen as a way to protect learners' privacy in compliance with the Protection of Personal Information Act POPIA.
Supporters of this approach believe it helps maintain privacy and adheres to legal requirements, but Makaneta stresses the need for additional transparency. He has suggested that the department consider issuing consent forms for parents or guardians, which would provide an extra layer of legal compliance and clarity.
Makaneta further calls on Minister Gwarube to clarify whether parental or guardian consent is still necessary in this context. He highlights that recent directives from the Information Regulator have emphasized the importance of adhering strictly to POPIA, and he believes addressing this issue would ensure full compliance and protect learners' rights.
