Dr Sishi made it clear that the focus of the examinations was for learners to be able to execute their skills. The Department also acknowledged the positive results obtained in the last examinations. There was a problem during the Computer Studies and Information Technology examinations when there were power-outages in at least five provinces which affected at least 1 200 learners. Fortunately, there was a back-up paper available and the examinations were a success, except in KwaZulu-Natal where there was a further power-outage which affected at least 300 learners. Because of the distances, it was impossible to quarantine these learners and arrangements have been made to remedy the situation and allow these learners the opportunity of completing the examinations. A further back-up paper had been drawn- up which required the approval of Umalusi.