Education
CARIB | May 21, 2023

OEC responds to CSEC Mathematics Paper 2 breach in Jamaica

/ Our Today

administrator
Reading Time: 2 minutes
The Manhattan Road headquarters of the Overseas Examinations Commission (OEC) in St Andrew, Jamaica. (Photo: Google.com)

The Overseas Examinations Commission (OEC) is condemning what it called “unscrupulous behaviour” that has led to the cancellation of the CSEC Mathematics Paper 2 examination and is currently reviewing and evaluating the regrettable situation to prevent a recurrence.

The commission, in a statement, confirmed that a breach occurred prior to the May 17 sitting of the examination, with the source of the resulting leak being identified in Jamaica.

“A thorough investigation is underway as we remain relentless in the pursuit of truth surrounding this unfortunate development. Appropriate actions will be taken against the responsible parties,” the commission disclosed.

In the meantime, the OEC is lending its full support to the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC), which has decided on the following outcome:

  • Candidates will not be required to resit the 2023 CSEC Mathematics Paper 2 examination.
  • The final grade for the examination will be awarded using a modified approach. The related School Based Assessment (SBA) and Paper 1 results will be used to determine a final grade.

The OEC further reminded all candidates about the importance of ethical behaviour and the potentially life-changing consequences of dishonesty. The commission bemoaned the actions of those who obtained a copy of the test, which have undermined the hard work and dedication of students and teachers who have dedicated years of preparation to this examination.

The impacted students will never know the true results of their efforts and sacrifices and are indeed victims of the poor choices of a wayward few.

“The OEC will continue to improve its systems and processes. Those who attempt to jeopardise the future of our region’s youth will be held accountable,” the OEC stated.

Brian Bennett-Easy, chairman of the Overseas Examinations Commission (OEC) speaking in Jamaica in March 2018. (Photo: Twitter @mnsgovjm)

“We apologise to all the candidates who have been affected by this unfortunate event. We know how hard you have worked and how much this exam means to you and your academic pursuits. You do not deserve this,” said Brian Bennett-Easy, chairman of the OEC. 

“The OEC is dedicating our efforts to ensuring that your final grades are fair and accurate. Fairness and maintaining the integrity of the examination process are our top priorities,” he added.

Comments

What To Read Next