Deputy Minister of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sport, Arts and Culture, Dino Ballotti, assured the public that measures are in place to ensure a secure, fair, and credible national examination process.
Ballotti said registrations of all candidates have been completed as well as the appointment of the markers.
Giving an update on the readiness of the administration for the exams, Ballotti stated timetables have already been distributed to all learners nationwide, and marking will start on the 24th of October and continue until the 13th of December.
"While the progress made thus far is commendable, it is important to emphasise that the success of any high-stakes examination hinges on strict adherence to established rules and regulations governing its administration."
He, however, indicated that the increase in daily subsistence allowance for the markers from N$570 to N$970 has led to a shortfall of N$13.4 million.
Markers and invigilators will be given a break from the 25th to the 27th of November to take part in the elections.
Some MPs raised concerns about the duration of the break and the N$13 million shortfall as well as space for learners to take part in the exams.
Member of Parliament Hidipo Kambala of the Affirmative Repositioning highlighted that, "There is space being made for invigilators to travel and return on duty on the 28th. But then you also have teachers that are also being sidelined on that particular date."
IPC MP Immanuel Nashinge questioned, "You spoke of a gap of N$13 million. Where is it coming from, and was it not budgeted for? Did we forget about it? And how do you plan to raise this 13 million?
"What mechanisms have been introduced to make sure that every single learner that has to sit for these exams has the space and has the resources that are necessary to make sure that invigilation takes place for them to actually take their exam?, added PDM MP, Inna Hengari.
Ballotti promised to give a response to all issues raised by next week.
He said in terms of the shortfall on the budget, the ministry is currently trying to source funds.