Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube has moved to reassure the country that the 2025 matric results will be released on schedule on January 12, despite a localised breach involving a small number of leaked examination papers.

Speaking after the discovery of irregularities in a handful of scripts from seven schools in Pretoria, the minister emphasised that the marking and verification processes remain firmly on track.

She confirmed that the breach was detected early, contained swiftly, and is now under thorough investigation by a newly established National Investigative Task Team.

Gwarube stressed that no final results have been approved and that the integrity checks already built into the national marking system are continuing without delay.

She said all necessary steps are being taken to ensure that the credibility of the NSC examination results remains intact.

According to the minister, the department’s multi-layered security and quality-assurance processes are functioning as intended, and the investigation will not affect the national timetable.

She expressed confidence that all marking, moderation and verification procedures will be completed in time for the planned announcement.

Gwarube reiterated that honest learners will not be disadvantaged and that the department remains committed to delivering credible and reliable results on January 12 as scheduled.