School administrators urged to comply with regulations governing handling of exam materials

The Overseas Examination Commission (OEC) is urging school administrators to be compliant with the regulations and standards that govern the handling of examination materials in their institutions.

As the exam season approaches, Chairman of the OEC, Brian Bennett-Easy, underscored the critical necessity for all schools to rigorously follow the established Examination Centre Regulations.

He pointed out to JIS News that these guidelines approved by the Commission are instrumental in averting any breaches and guaranteeing equitable and secure testing conditions for students throughout the island.

Bennett-Easy also alluded to the broader regional consequences of any deviations, emphasising their pivotal role in upholding the integrity of the examination process.

Meanwhile, Executive Director of the OEC, Hector Stephenson, reminded principals, heads of centres, examination coordinators and administrators that the ultimate responsibility for the security of all examination paraphernalia rests on the Head of each institution.

He encouraged schools to familiarise themselves with their responsibilities as examination centres, and to implement all necessary security measures to prevent any irregularities.

The OEC provides comprehensive guidelines and training to schools on these regulations annually and will continue to do so to encourage compliance.

“The OEC continues to work to further strengthen its partnership with the Ministry of Education and Youth (MOEY) in the implementation of improved strategies to maintain order and credibility in the administration of examinations in the 2024 exam season,” Stephenson told JIS News.

He pointed out that the academic integrity of a nation rests with the OEC's capability to enforce fairness and transparency in the administration process at all levels, while ensuring that appropriate penalties are given for non-compliance.

The OEC is committed to working with schools and key stakeholders to maintain the highest standards expected for fair examinations.

The commission remains confident that through continued collaboration with and compliance by all centres, its legacy of providing secure and reliable administration systems and standards for the proctoring of examinations for Jamaican students will continue to be preserved.

- JIS News

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