Revision-of-paper reports will no longer be sent to students after their resits, the Education Ministry assured yesterday following an article in The Times.
It is unacceptable for there to be such delays
“It is unacceptable for there to be such delays and for the results of revision of papers to be sent to students after they have done their resits,” the ministry said.
Its press statement made direct reference to a report on yesterday’s front page which quoted an irate mother whose daughter sat for her resits in Maltese and Biology O level before receiving her revision-of-paper result. The ministry said a solution would be found together with the Matsec board, despite the logistical difficulties posed by a surge in demand for revision of papers.
“We assure students they will be given the results and feedback before their resits,” the ministry said, adding that government policy was to encourage students to advance in their studies.
The revision-of-paper service was intended for students to know where they went wrong, the ministry said, and nothing should hamper any student from the opportunity to improve their grades.
The press statement showed a marked difference from the comments originally obtained from the ministry, which said Matsec could not guarantee timely resit reports since examiners were working within tight time frames.
Theresa Camilleri, the mother who brought the matter to national attention, yesterday welcomed the ministry’s press statement.
“I’m pleased because online reactions to the story showed this was a problem that permeated all levels of education, not only Matsec,” she said, pointing out that A level and University students had complained about similar delays.
“Instead of complaining, I wanted to raise awareness and I’m glad something is being done about it,” she said.
Even the PN condemned the delays in a press statement making direct reference to the article.
“These delays are unacceptable for the Nationalist Party because they create unnecessary stress on students and parents,” the party said, adding that the Matsec board and examiners had to do their best to avoid such situations.
“The PN appreciates the Education Ministry’s work for students, but everyone must pull the same rope.”