SEDIBENG.- The Minister of Basic Education, Siviwe Gwarube, delivered a comprehensive and forward looking keynote address at the 2025 National Senior Certificate (NSC) results announcement, reaffirming the credibility of the national examinations and reflecting on what the results reveal about the health, progress and challenges of South Africa’s education system.

In her address, the Minister emphasised that education lies at the heart of South Africa’s national renewal, shaping the country’s future long before it is debated in public spaces.

She highlighted the importance of stability, accountability and cooperation in strengthening institutions, noting that the NSC remains one of the largest and most complex assessment processes in the country, with rigorous quality assurance measures in place to protect its integrity.

Gwarube outlined a clear shift towards long-term, evidence based reform, stressing that meaningful change in a system serving millions of learners requires sustained leadership, trust, and alignment across all levels. Central to her message was the urgent need to move beyond access alone, and to focus on quality learning outcomes, equity, and strong foundations, particularly in early childhood development and literacy.

The address also acknowledged the vital role played by educators, parents, communities, social partners and stakeholders in supporting learners throughout their educational journeys. As the largest cohort in history to sit for the NSC examinations, the Class of 2025 stands as a reflection of both the progress made and the work that still lies ahead in ensuring that every learner is equipped to succeed.

Provincial Percentages:

1. KwaZulu-Natal – 90,6%
2. Free State – 89,33%
3. Gauteng – 89,06%
4. North West – 88,49%
5. Western Cape – 88,2%
6. Northern Cape – 87,79%
7. Mpumalanga – 86,55%
8. Limpopo – 86,15%
9. Eastern Cape – 84,17%

Meanwhile the Sedibeng East District achieved an 87.1% matric pass rate, securing 12th position among all Gauteng districts.

The Sedibeng West achieved an 85.1% matric pass rate, securing 14th position among all Gauteng districts.