Examination Assistant Initiative applied as the Basic Department of Education seeks to confront the devastating economic challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, as part of government’s broader economic recovery agenda. The Programme was created to address the high levels of youth unemployment in South Africa.

Temporary casual personnel will be appointed as Examination Assistants to assist Limpopo Department of Education in the administration of the National Senior Certificate and Senior Certificate Examinations. Suitable applicants that fulfil the requirements are invited to apply for this task.

Benefits and challenges of working as an exam assistant:

Benefits:

1. Flexible Work Schedule: Working as an exam assistant often allows for a flexible schedule, which can accommodate other commitments such as studies or personal responsibilities.
2. Remote Work Opportunities: Many exam assistant roles can be performed remotely, offering the flexibility to work from anywhere with an internet connection.
3. Skill Development: Working as an exam assistant can help develop a wide range of skills including communication, problem-solving, time management, and proficiency with technology.
4. Continuous Learning: Engaging with students and their inquiries can keep you updated on various subjects and educational trends, fostering a culture of continuous learning and personal development.

Challenges:

1. Technical Challenges: Working as an exam assistant may involve dealing with technical issues such as software glitches, internet connectivity problems, or learning new tools and platforms.
2. High Expectations: There may be high expectations from students, teachers, or employers regarding response times, accuracy, and quality of assistance provided, which can sometimes be challenging to meet consistently.
3. Handling Difficult Situations: Some inquiries or interactions with students may be challenging or confrontational, requiring strong communication and conflict resolution skills to handle effectively.
4. Repetitive Tasks: Depending on the nature of the role, working as an exam assistant may involve repetitive tasks such as answering similar questions or providing standardized responses, which can become monotonous over time.
5. Emotional Labor: Supporting students through their academic challenges may involve emotional labor, especially when dealing with stressed or anxious individuals, requiring empathy and resilience.

Minimum requirements for appointment as an Examination Assistant are as follows:

-Youth at the age of 35 and below.

-Currently registered students at Universities and Universities of Technology

-Currently registered students at TVET Colleges (N6 ONLY).

-Unemployed graduates in possession of a Degree or Diploma qualification

-South African citizens residing in Limpopo Province.

-Must be available every day for the full period during which marking takes Place and be prepared to work under extreme pressure with tight deadlines excellent numerical skills.

Note: It is the Department’s intention to promote equity through the filing of Examination Assistant posts, according to the Employment Equity targets. To facilitate this process successfully, an indication of race, gender and disability status is required. Applicants may be required to work at a centre away from their places of residence; in this case they will be accommodated at a school hostel.

South Africans unemployed youth aged 18 – 35 years old, who are currently neither in education/training, nor receiving any form of government grant, as well as young people living with disability and women, are eligible and encouraged to apply for this enriching experience, when the application period is open. Candidates who are selected for placement will have an opportunity to receive training on various skills that will equip them for future employment opportunities.