Matric exam marker dies of Covid-19-related illness

A 59-year-old IsiXhosa matric examination marker from Gauteng has succumbed to a Covid-19 related illness.

The Gauteng department of education said the marker, who was  stationed at Jeppe Boys Marking venue,  died in hospital after being found unconscious at her place of accommodation on Tuesday.

Last week a marker from Estcourt High school in KwaZulu-Natal also succumbed to a Covid -19 related illness.

Acting MEC for Education in Gauteng Jacob Mamabolo, said he was saddened by the death of the marker.

“It is with great sadness that we confirm the passing of one of our markers. Initial reports indicate that the marker was on Tuesday found unconscious by our centre manager from Jeppe Boys marking venue at her accommodation. This after noticing that the marker had not reported for duty as expected. The marker, who tested positive for Covid-19, was admitted to hospital but, unfortunately, died on Thursday morning,” Mamabolo said.

The department has offered psycho-social support to all affected by the matter and some officials have been deployed to accompany the family to the hospital and provide necessary support and assistance that may be required.

The department said the group of markers who were in contact with the now deceased marker were tested on Tuesday and released from the marking venue while waiting for results. The marking centre was immediately defogged and sanitized.

On Monday the department of basic education said there were 2,703 of 46,024 markers who had withdrawn.

Priscilla Ogunbanjo, director for examinations at the department, said 238 markers had contracted the coronavirus after reporting for duty.

Marking started on January 4 and will go on for 18 days as opposed to 12 and 14 days in the previous years.