The Ministry of Education, Arts and Culture has revealed a funding gap of N$13.4 million needed to pay examination markers’ daily subsistence allowances (DSA) for the ongoing National Senior Secondary Certificate (NSSC) examinations.
Education executive director Sanet Steenkamp, in a ministerial statement delivered by deputy minister Dino Ballotti in the National Assembly on Thursday, said the total requirement stands at N$28.4 million. However, only N$15 million is currently available following a recent increase in DSA rates.
“The increased DSA rate from N$570 to N$970 per day, though necessary, has resulted in a significant funding shortfall,” Steenkamp explained. “The ministry is addressing this matter to prevent any disruption to the marking process and to ensure fair treatment of all appointed markers.”
The examinations, which began on 14 October, will continue until 19 November. Marking is scheduled to start on 24 October and run until 13 December, with a brief pause between 25 and 27 November due to the regional council and local authority elections.
According to Steenkamp, the shortfall affects 2 097 markers across the country. She said the ministry is working to secure the outstanding funds to ensure all allowances are paid in full.
She further noted that 1 278 markers and 20 subjects will be directly impacted by the marking schedule adjustments. “Various marking venues have already been secured, but leases will have to be extended due to the temporary closure during the election period,” she said.
Despite the financial strain, Steenkamp assured that preparations for the 2025 NSSC examinations remain on track. The ministry expects to release the final results by 25 January 2026.
