Northern Cape’s Class of 2025 faces final hurdle

GRADE 12 pupils will write their National Senior Certificate (NSC) English language papers on Thursday, as pupils across the country kick off their final examinations for 2025 this week.

Northern Cape Department of Education spokesperson Geoffrey van der Merwe said pupils sat for the Computer Applications Technology practical exams on Tuesday.

“A total of 16,056 candidates – including 14,210 full-time candidates and 1,846 part-time candidates – have registered to write the examinations, which will conclude on November 25. The Northern Cape Department of Education is fully prepared to administer the 2025 National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations. All systems are in place to ensure the successful and credible delivery of this year’s examinations,” said Van der Merwe.

Preparing the Class of 2025

He added that the Class of 2025 was expected to build upon the 2024 Northern Cape matric pass rate of 84.2% and aim to exceed the national average.

“The department implemented a range of targeted interventions to support all learners, with particular focus on progressed and borderline candidates to maximise their potential. These interventions included curriculum roadshows and subject clinics, broadcast lessons and digital content, Saturday classes, weekend lock-in sessions, and psycho-social support.”

Van der Merwe said that differentiated subject support for high-enrolment and problematic subjects was led by subject advisers.

“Additional learning support materials and holiday school camps were offered to provide holistic academic and emotional support to learners throughout their examination preparation.”

Van der Merwe said 148 registered examination centres across the province would be used for the exams.

“The department remains committed to upholding the integrity of the examinations. All necessary measures have been put in place to prevent irregularities, particularly those related to dishonesty and the unauthorised use of electronic devices. A total of 148 chief invigilators have been appointed and thoroughly trained to manage and monitor exam processes across the province.”

He noted that 81 question papers had been set by the Department of Basic Education.

“The printing, packing, and distribution of papers are co-ordinated with robust security protocols to ensure integrity and traceability. Every candidate is assured of receiving their examination papers on time and without compromise.”

Van der Merwe said 916 markers, 186 senior markers, 85 chief markers, 21 deputy chief markers, 85 internal moderators, three centre managers, six deputy centre managers, and 250 examination assistants had been appointed to ensure high-quality marking.

“The marking of examination papers will begin on December 1 at three designated centres. Answer scripts and related materials will be securely delivered to these centres. The marking and capturing of marks will be completed by December 12.”

Counting down to results day

Van der Merwe said the Minister of Basic Education would officially release the national results on January 8, 2026.

“The Northern Cape provincial results will be released on January 9, 2026, followed by the annual matric awards ceremony.”

He added that every effort had been made to prepare and support learners through one of the most critical milestones in their academic journey.

“It is important to recognise that the matric examination is not only significant for pupils. It represents a 12-year partnership between the provincial government, parents, educators, families, and communities. As pupils face the final chapter of their school careers, they do so supported by the collective investment of all stakeholders. We call on parents and family members to provide continued guidance, encouragement, and emotional support during this crucial period.

“We also urge the Class of 2025 to approach their examinations with honesty, discipline, and integrity, in line with the oath they have taken. With confidence, we believe that the Class of 2025 will rise to the occasion and make the Northern Cape proud.”

The Northern Cape MEC for Education, Abraham Vosloo, encouraged the Class of 2025 to embrace their futures with pride.

“The final examinations are not only a reflection of pupils’ dedication and dreams, but also demonstrate the support of everyone who has walked this journey with them – including parents, teachers, guardians, and peers. May you write your examinations with clarity, courage, and pride,” he said.