More than 85 000 Mpumalanga matric candidates sit for final NSC exams
Hundreds of appointed invigilators step in to safeguard examination integrity, with thousands of markers set to take over in December.
More than 85 000 candidates in Mpumalanga took up their pens and started writing on October 13.
“The NSC represents the culmination of 13 years of schooling. For many of our young people, it is the gateway to further education, training, employment and a better life,” the MEC for education, Lindi Masina, said during the provincial prayer meeting held at Witbank High School on October 8.
She said the 2026 academic year started on a high note, after the impressive performance of the Class of 2025, which achieved an 86.55% pass rate.
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“That achievement was not accidental; it was the product of the dedication of our teachers, the perseverance of our learners, the support of parents, the leadership of our principals and the commitment of education officials and stakeholders throughout the province,” Masina said.
Department aims for 91% pass rate
This year, the department has set a target of a 91% pass rate.
The department has appointed and trained 588 chief and deputy invigilators, and is collaborating with the South African Council for Educators to strengthen examination integrity and ensure that the highest standards of professional ethics are maintained.
After the writing of the examinations, the marking process will take place across 23 marking centres from December 1 to 12, involving 7 287 markers and administrators.
The results will subsequently be announced nationally by the minister of basic education on January 10 next year, followed by the provincial announcement on January 11.
Masina urges matriculants to write with confidence
“My dear children, I want you to know that the whole of Mpumalanga is behind you,” Masina said in a message of encouragement to the matriculants. “You have travelled a long road to reach this point. You have faced challenges, overcome obstacles and continued to move forward. Now the time has come for you to demonstrate what you have learnt. Go into the examination room with confidence. Go with discipline. Go with honesty. Go with courage. Remember that every mark counts and that every effort brings you closer to your goal.”
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