Picture: The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi/Facebook
By OBAKENG MAJE
3 June 2025- The North West Department of Education has been under scrutiny over a R100 million contract for the printing, packaging and delivery of examination papers for 2025. The department is accused of increasing the tender from R27 million to R100 million.
The North West Department of Education spokesperson, Mphata Molokwane said the tender was increased due to enhanced security requirements. Molokwane said in previous years, the province faced challenges with paper leaks and compromised examinations.
“The department could no longer rely solely on public printing facilities that lacked modern security infrastructure. The new contract includes tight security measures such as biometric access, CCTV-monitored printing zones, GPS-tracked logistics, and 24/7 secure storage to eliminate leak risks and ensure examination integrity.
“Previously, the R27 million contract covered only the printing. The current R100 million contract is a comprehensive end-to-end solution that includes high-volume printing, secure packaging and labelling per school, delivery to and collection from all districts,” he said.
Molokwane further said this includes the storage of question and answer booklets, retrieval and delivery of scripts to marking centres. He added that the number of learners writing examinations has increased significantly in the past five years.
“This results in a higher volume of scripts, requiring more paper, more logistics, and more coordination. Over time, the cost of materials, security, fuel, and staffing have increased. The department cannot compromise exam integrity by underfunding these critical functions.
“The price reflects current market realities for secure national-standard examination handling. The department’s plans and vision going forward is to protect the integrity of exams,” said Molokwane.
He said this contract ensures that every child in every corner of the province receives their paper on time and that no learner is disadvantaged due to logistics failures or leaks. Molokwane said the department has structured the agreement to ensure that North West-based logistics, printing, and support service companies benefit from sub-contracting, job creation and training opportunities.
“The contract includes strict performance KPIs, penalties for non-delivery, and quarterly public reporting. An internal oversight committee has been established to ensure transparency and value for money.
“The department is partnering with the contractor to open a skills program for local youth interested in logistics, printing, and digital document security – aligning with our long-term plan to internalize these services through state capacity,” he said.
Molokwane said this R100 million contract is not just an expense – it is an investment in the credibility of their education system and most importantly, in the future of their children. He said the department has moved away from a minimal-cost model to a security-first, learner-focused approach that ensures no child is left behind due to inefficiencies.
“The department remains fully accountable to the public,” said Molokwane.
The Guardian 