South Africa’s upcoming local government elections could place thousands of first-time voters in a difficult position. As political parties prepare for a heated campaign season ahead of the elections on 4 November, Grade 12 learners may find themselves choosing between the ballot box and the examination room.
The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) and the Department of Basic Education (DBE) may once again have to navigate a crowded national calendar: the election date announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa coincides with the period traditionally reserved for the National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations.
According to Dr Mabutho Shangase, senior lecturer in political studies and international relations at the North-West University (NWU), the overlap could affect voter turnout among young people, particularly those preparing to vote for the first time.
“The overlap between the election period and the NSC examinations has the potential to disrupt the schooling programme and adversely affect voter turnout among young people, particularly first-time voters,” says Dr Shangase.
Competing demands
