The Opposition has requested an investigation into the intermediate mathematics examination and physics advanced level examination following numerous complaints received by Nationalist Party MPs.

In a statement, the PN said that teachers contacted by the party had verified that some of the questions were on matters not covered by the syllabus and therefore students could not answer them.

The Opposition expects the education authorities as well as the MATSEC board to investigate what took place and take the necessary steps to remedy the situation. Students should not be the victims of other people’s mistakes, the PN said.

These students need to have peace of mind that matters are being taken in hand, given that they have other exams to sit for in the coming days. The Education Ministry cannot remain silent in the face of these complaints, the PN said.

In reply, the University's Matsec board said that the process of drawing up an exam paper involves a number of people. The people involved in the two papers mentioned by the PN have a long experience in the subjects and what to expect from students. A reviewer is also appointed to check that the paper can be worked out in the time allocated and that all the questions have been covered by the syllabus.

The board said that the number 10 question in the maths exam was on a subject not covered by the syllabus. This question carried six points, and the Matsec board said steps will be taken so that the candidates sitting for the exam will not be disadvantaged.

The board said that all questions in the physics exam were covered by the syllabus.