MAHIKENG MAIL - MAHIKENG: This week, the Department of Education in the North West has been under fire, following reports of the awarding of a contract worth over R100 million, for the printing of exam papers for the next five years.
The reports have caused a stir in the North West provincial government as concerns have been raised over the education administration’s decision to push the contract from R27 million to over a R100 million.
Departmental spokesperson, Mphata Molokwane, who responded to the matter indicated that the North West department was aware of the concerns raised on social media and in the public domain regarding the “massive contract for the printing, packaging and delivery of examination papers for this year”.
“It is important that the department provide a full response on this matter. Why the increase from R27 million to R100 million? Enhanced security requirements: In previous years, the North West 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. Expanded scope of services: 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, storage of question and answer booklets and retrieval and delivery of scripts to marking centers.
“Growth in learner population: 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.
“Inflation and market costs: 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.
“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.
“Local empowerment and job creation: 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.
“Monitoring and accountability: 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.
“Skills Development: 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”.
“This R100 million contract is not just an expense – it is an investment in the credibility of our education system, and most importantly, in the future of our children. The North West Department of Education 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,” he remarked.
