Department of Basic Education reports steady progress as 2026 matric examinations reach halfway mark
The Department of Basic Education is encouraged by the steady progress recorded in the administration of the 2026 National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations, as the Class of 2026 reaches an important milestone in the examination calendar.
With examinations approaching the halfway mark, the Department is pleased that the process continues across the country, with no major incidents reported that threaten the overall credibility and integrity of the examinations. The Department commends provincial education departments, examination officials, educators and school management teams for their continued commitment to ensuring that examinations are administered in an orderly, credible, and secure environment.
Department continues to monitor potential disruptions
While the overall examination process remains stable, the Department continues to monitor developments that could potentially affect learners’ ability to access examination centres.
Of particular concern are reports of taxi-related violence in parts of the Western Cape, which have the potential to disrupt transport arrangements and the movement of learners and examination personnel. The Department is working closely with the Western Cape Education Department and relevant authorities to monitor developments and support appropriate interventions aimed at minimising disruptions.
The Department reiterates that no learner should be disadvantaged by circumstances beyond their control and encourages affected schools and communities to maintain close communication with provincial education authorities.
Learner wellbeing remains a priority
As examinations progress, the Department recognises that this period can place considerable emotional and psychological pressure on learners, particularly those preparing for subjects that require extensive revision and concentration. Parents, guardians, educators and communities are encouraged to continue providing reassurance and practical support to learners.
Adequate rest, balanced study schedules, proper nutrition and emotional support remain essential components of examination preparation. Learners experiencing examination-related anxiety or emotional distress are encouraged to seek assistance through their educators, school-based support teams and available psychosocial support services. The Department reminds learners that while examinations are an important milestone, their wellbeing remains equally important.
Preparations for marking and the conclusion of examinations
Alongside the ongoing administration of examinations, the Department and provincial education departments continue preparations for the marking process and other critical activities associated with the conclusion of the 2026 examination cycle.These preparations form part of the Department’s broader responsibility to ensure that the examination process, from the writing of papers through to the release of results, is managed with the necessary levels of efficiency, accountability and integrity. The Department remains committed to maintaining the credibility of the NSC qualification and ensuring that all learners are afforded a fair opportunity to demonstrate their academic abilities.
A message to the class of 2026
As learners move into the remaining weeks of examinations, the Department calls on South Africans to continue rallying behind the Class of 2026. The support of families, educators and communities remains critical in helping learners maintain their confidence, motivation and focus. The Department encourages learners to remain disciplined in their preparation, seek assistance where necessary and approach their remaining examinations with confidence.
The message to the Class of 2026 is clear: Stay focused, remain confident and finish strong. The nation is behind you.
The Department will continue working with provincial education departments and relevant stakeholders to ensure the successful conclusion of the 2026 NSC examinations.
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