Category: South Africa Government

Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube has assured the Class of 2025 that not passing the National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations does not mark the end of their journey, emphasising that multiple support mechanisms and alternative pathways remain available. 

Addressing learners at the release of the matric results on Monday, the Minister stressed the importance of hope, resilience and seeking support. 

“And to every learner who did not get the result you hoped for: you are not a failure, and your story is not over. There are pathways to improve your results – through rewrites, support programmes and second-chance opportunities. What matters now is that you take the next step, with support, and without shame,” Gwarube said. 

As part of these interventions, the Department of Basic Education (DBE) continues to roll out the Second Chance Matric Programme, which provides structured academic and psychosocial support to learners who wish to rewrite subjects or complete outstanding requirements. 

The programme assists candidates to meet the requirements of either the National Senior Certificate (NSC) or the Senior Certificate (SC), enabling them to obtain a recognised Grade 12 qualification.

Support is offered through a combination of face-to-face classes at centres across the country, as well as online learning platforms, television lessons and radio broadcasts, ensuring access for learners in different circumstances. 

Learners who qualify for the programme may rewrite through the following examination opportunities: 

• NSC supplementary examinations in March. 

• NSC progressed learner examinations in June, for candidates who previously did not sit for all six subjects. 

• Part-time NSC examinations in November, for learners who attempted the NSC after 2015. 

The DBE has reiterated that the Second Chance Matric Programme is provided free of charge, warning learners and parents to be cautious of private or commercial services that charge fees while claiming affiliation with the programme. 

Eligible candidates may register to rewrite or add subjects in line with departmental policies for the May/June examination cycle, without making any payment.  

Registration for the programme opened on 1 October 2025 and will close on 6 February 2026. 

“The department does not endorse any private or commercial services that require payment for participation in the Second Chance Programme,” the DBE said, urging learners to rely only on official platforms for accurate information.

Re-mark or Re-check

In addition, the DBE provides an online service for (NSC) candidates to request a re-mark or re-check of examination scripts. 

In order to request a re-mark or re-check service, candidates must first register on the e-Gov portal at www.eservices.gov.za to create a personal account. This account will allow the candidate to login using their password and usernames to access the service. 

“Registration can be done at either the school or district office in the province or online,” the DBE said.

The opening date for applications for re-marking and re-checking is 13 January 2026 with the closing date set for 27 January 2026 for both manual applications and online applications. 

The fee for re-mark is R120 per subject and re-checking is R30 per subject. The viewing of scripts may only be done after a re-mark or re-check of results. The closing date for applications is 7 days after release of re-mark or re-check results. The fee for viewing is R230. 

Results of remarking will be released from 13 March 2026 and will be available at the school/exam centre where the candidate sat for their 2025 examinations.

The Second Chance programme targets key gateway subjects, including Mathematics, Mathematical Literacy, Physical Sciences, Life Sciences, Accounting, Business Studies, Economics, Geography, History, English First Additional Language and Agricultural Sciences. 

Beyond academic support, the initiative also forms part of government’s broader efforts to improve learner retention, align with the National Development Plan, and expose candidates to bursary and further-study opportunities. 

The department has encouraged learners who feel overwhelmed or discouraged by their results to seek guidance from teachers, parents and support services, reminding them that mental wellbeing is a critical part of navigating post-matric options. 

For verified information and registration details, learners are advised to contact the Department of Basic Education directly or visit its official platforms. Learners can use the following contacts: 

• Email: SecondChance@dbe.gov.za 

• SMS/Calls: +27 63 696 7246 (Enquiries) 

• WozaMatrics WhatsApp: 061 505 3023 (Subject-related queries)

– SAnews.gov.za

62 views

North West Premier Lazarus Kagiso Mokgosi has expressed his deep sadness upon learning about the passing of Bishop Daniel Matebesi from the Independent Congregational Church of Southern Africa (ICCSA).

Bishop Matebesi passed away on Friday, 9 January 2026, at the age of 66.

The Premier described the late Bishop as a devoted servant of God and a respected leader in both the interfaith community and the broader society. 

He noted that Bishop Matebesi dedicated his life to ministry, providing spiritual guidance, wisdom, and compassion to his congregants and community members. 

Beyond the pulpit, the Premier acknowledged the Bishop’s humility and commitment.

“His consistent involvement in the provincial government’s programmes did not go unnoticed, as he selflessly dedicated his time and contribution to restoring dignity and hope to those in need,” said Mokgosi.  

The Bishop was actively involved in the Premier’s Operation Dignity Programme, serving as a patron of the Gender-Based Violence Forum and as the Chairperson of the Moral Regeneration Movement in the Ngaka Modiri Molema District. 

He was also a well-respected and familiar voice, preaching on the Setswana radio station Motsweding FM during Sunday morning programmes for many years.

“I wish to, on behalf of the North West Provincial Government, extend our heartfelt condolences to the Matebesi family, the faith-based organisations, and all who were touched by his life and ministry. May we all find comfort in the legacy of faith, love and service that Bishop Matebesi leaves behind,” said Mokgosi. 

The Premier will join mourners to pay their respects to Bishop Matebesi during his funeral service on Thursday, 15 January 2026, at Grace Bible Church in Mahikeng. – SAnews.gov.za

5 views

The Portfolio Committee on Basic Education has welcomed the marginal increase in the pass rate achieved by the 2025 Grade 12 cohort, attributing the steady year-on-year improvement to the solid foundation laid by previous administrations. 

While the 88% is commendable, the committee highlighted the need for a concerted effort to address the sluggish uptake and throughput in STEM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics).

“We welcome the increase, especially as it reflects the maturity of the system and work done by the department over the past few years.

“However, the low uptake and throughput in STEM subjects continue to limit the country’s drive towards economic growth, technological development and global competitiveness,” Chairperson of the committee Joy Maimela said on Monday.

The committee agreed with the Department of Basic Education that efforts should be directed towards establishing a technical school in every district to help drive growth in these subjects.

Furthermore, the committee welcomed the overall improvement in performance, noting that the 2025 cohort began their high school journey in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, which had a significant impact on teaching and learning.

The committee also welcomed the progress made across all districts, with every district achieving performance above 80%. 

“The enormous work put in by all stakeholders, including teachers, parents and district officials, has been central to this cohort achieving this important milestone in their basic education journey. May these gains be doubled in the coming years to ensure that our young people receive quality basic education,” Maimela said.

Despite commendable progress in social justice principles within the basic education sector – access, redress, equity and inclusivity – the committee has called for the improvement in efficiency and quality.

The committee highlighted the ever-decreasing number of educators against a growing learner population as a major impediment to quality education. 

“It is unacceptable that while the system caters for an increasing number of learners, teacher posts are not increasing at the same pace. The Department of Basic Education must move with speed to improve quality where challenges exist,” she said.

Regarding throughput, the committee called for renewed focus on understanding and addressing the number of learners who pass Grade 12 compared to those who registered for Grade 1 in 2014.

While noting a marginal improvement in throughput, the committee expressed concern that the number of learners who fall by the wayside remains worryingly high. 

The committee welcomed the assurance by the Minister that there is a renewed focus to understand through data, to find targeted solutions and support to ensure that the system’s health is maintained.

While the committee notes the progress made, it emphasised the importance of a fully functional system.

In this regard, early childhood education and strong support structures at the lower levels of education are critical. 

“Education does not exist in isolation, and the many socio-economic challenges faced by society must be addressed to build a functional, quality education system that produces learners who can meaningfully contribute to the country’s economic development,” Maimela said.

The committee also welcomed progress in no-fee-paying schools, particularly in townships and rural areas, which bodes well for the development of these areas. 

It extended a special commendation to KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) for continued excellence even under the challenging circumstances the department faces. 

“The results of the 2025 cohort by KZN highlight what a resilient system can produce,” the Chairperson said.

The committee urged the department to ensure that all its systems are fully in place to allow teaching and learning to start on the first day of school.

These include the timely availability of learning and teaching support materials, adequate teacher provisioning, the protection of learning time, and the effective implementation of the National School Nutrition Programme. –SAnews.gov.za

51 views

Eskom has announced that it has entered the New Year with a “structurally stronger system” than it has in five years.

The power utility said this was the result of the implementation of the Generation Recovery Plan which commenced in April 2023.

Eskom comes into 2026 with an additional 4400 MW of capacity available than it did last year.

“The big picture through the peaks and troughs of delivering the Generation Recovery Plan is that Eskom has moved from a heavily constrained power system to an increasingly stable one, a power system that can reliably deliver 24/7, 365 baseload power,” Eskom Group Chief Executive, Dan Marokane said.

Results of the delivery of the plan include:

• The Energy Availability Factor (EAF) has risen from 56.03% to 64.55%. During the current financial year, from 1 April 2025 to date, the fleet has achieved or exceeded the 70% benchmark on 55 occasions.
• Scheduled maintenance, also known as Planned Capacity Loss Factor (PCLF), reached a high of 12.76% in Financial Year (FY) 2025 following an intensive period of maintenance, and is currently at 9.32%, trending towards the global-best practice for power systems.
• The Unplanned Capacity Loss Factor (UCLF) declined from 31.92% to 16.02%.
• The savings from diesel usage in FY 2025 were around R16 billion and continues to decrease in FY 2026, due to the reliability of the coal fleet increasing, enabling the safe reduction in the use of the open-cycle gas turbines (OCGTs), which play a vital role in providing emergency support during periods of supply shortage.

“We will now maintain and build upon these early gains through a rigorous focus on operational reliability and sustainability.

“It has been ‘short-term pain for long-term gain’, and I would like to thank the country for its understanding and support, as well as our employees for continuing to deliver on our strategy,” Marokane added.

Furthermore, the R254 billion Eskom Debt Relief package provided by government has reduced the pressure on the power utility’s balance sheet and allowed it to carry out essential maintenance and investment into the fleet.

“A reliable power system is not just measured in megawatts; it is measured in investor confidence.

“The impact of Eskom’s improved performance has contributed towards South Africa receiving its first credit rating upgrade in two decades and the risk rating associated with Eskom’s 2033 bonds has dropped, providing early indicators to investors warming to the turnaround,” Marokane noted. – SAnews.gov.za

 

38 views

The Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation, Professor Blade Nzimande, has expressed his deep sorrow, following the passing of Professor Roseanne Diab. 

Diab served as the Vice-President of the Academy of Science of South Africa (ASSAf) and was the Executive Officer of the Academy from 2008 to 2018.

Diab was an Emeritus Professor in the School of Environmental Sciences at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, where she made significant contributions as a scholar, mentor, and academic leader. 

The Professor’s daughter, Dr Paula Diab Bigalke, shared that her mother passed away peacefully on the evening of Saturday, 10 January 2026. 

She had been diagnosed with kidney cancer towards the end of the previous year and had been fighting diligently against the odds.

The Minister has described Diab as one of South Africa’s most distinguished scientists, who served the country in various capacities. 

Throughout her long tenure at the ASSAf and other national scientific and academic organisations, Nzimande said the late Professor played a crucial role in enhancing the quality of research in the country, thereby strengthening South Africa’s science, technology, and innovation policies.

The Minister said she was also a strong advocate for gender equality in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). 

Due to this commitment, she served as the Director of GenderInSite and chaired The World Academy of Sciences’ (TWAS) Gender Advisory Committee.

She was also a valued member of the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP) and the Chairperson of the Strategic Projects Committee (SPC) since 2019.

“She contributed to science policy formulation in such areas as emerging and transformative technologies, environmental sustainability, and equity in higher education and is also widely recognised for her pioneering research in air quality, atmospheric pollution, and climate change.

“Professor Diab’s passing constitutes an incalculable loss for our South Africa’s scientific and academic communities,” Nzimande said. 

On behalf of the Department of Science, Technology, and Innovation and all the entities in the National System of Innovation, the Minister conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Diab.

“We will remember her as a committed scientist, scholar, academic and mentor, whose work greatly enhanced our country’s standing as an emerging and global leader in several important scientific fields.” 

ASSAf stated that Diab’s passing represents an immeasurable loss to the academy, the South African community, global scientific communities, and all those who had the privilege of knowing and working with her.

“Her distinguished career, her steadfast commitment to scientific excellence, and her deep sense of service have left an indelible mark on our institution, our country, and the many individuals whose lives she touched,” the ASSAf statement read.

Her funeral service will he held tomorrow, Wednesday, 14 January 2026, at the Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church, in Kloof, Durban. – SAnews.gov.za

17 views

The Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), Velenkosini Hlabisa, will convene a follow-up meeting with the Congress of Traditional Leaders of South Africa (CONTRALESA) on Wednesday, 14 January 2026. 

The meeting will take place at the Southern Sun at OR Tambo International Airport in Gauteng.

According to the department, this engagement is a continuation of the breakfast meeting held on 5 December 2025, between President Cyril Ramaphosa and CONTRALESA, which Minister Hlabisa also attended.

“The follow-up meeting aims to allow for an in-depth discussion on issues raised during that engagement, particularly those affecting traditional and Khoi-San leadership and their role within the system of cooperative governance,” the advisory read. 

The meeting also forms part of the Ministry’s ongoing commitment to strengthening partnerships with traditional leadership structures and advancing collaborative solutions to matters impacting communities across the country. – SAnews.gov.za

23 views

As the Matric Class of 2025 celebrates a historic national pass rate of 88% – the highest in the country’s history – the spotlight has fallen on learners whose individual journeys reflect resilience, discipline and unwavering faith. 

From the Western Cape to Limpopo and Mpumalanga, South Africa’s top achievers have shown that excellence is not shaped by circumstance alone, but by perseverance, purpose and belief. 

Abigail Kok, a learner from York High School in the Western Cape, emerged as the Top National Achiever in the 2025 National Senior Certificate examinations. Speaking to SAnews, Abigail said the achievement still feels unreal. 

“Right now, it feels completely surreal. I honestly did not expect this at all,” she said with a huge smile on her face. 

Known for her academic brilliance, sporting excellence and leadership, Abigail said her greatest challenge was learning to manage her own high expectations. 

“Striving for perfection in academics, sport and leadership caused stress. Over time, I learnt that doing your best is enough, that saying ‘no’ is not failure, and that setbacks are stepping stones rather than the end of the journey,” she said. 

Her matric year was defined by discipline and balance, a carefully structured timetable, consistent effort and a conscious effort to avoid procrastination. 

“For me, the big thing in getting here was to try and avoid procrastination. It’s very difficult. YouTube Shorts is really amazing when you have to study but having a timetable, working consistently throughout the year, maintaining balance through sport and culture, and remembering to thank God made the difference,” she said. 

Abigail credits her primary school principal, Van Wyk Dames, as a lasting source of inspiration, describing him as a leader who embodied integrity, compassion and respect for every learner. 

Beyond the classroom, she balanced First Team Hockey and Squash, served as Headgirl, and was Vice-Chairperson of the RCL, while playing a leading role in initiatives such as a cellphone-free school policy, an online tutoring system and her school’s 50th anniversary celebrations. 

Looking ahead, Abigail plans to study at Stellenbosch University, where she has registered for Actuarial Science, with hopes of transitioning into Data Science. 

Her message to the Class of 2026 is heartfelt: “Work hard, try your best and don’t procrastinate. Very importantly, enjoy the year. It’s such a special year and your last chance to be a child. Laugh, enjoy it, and you’ve got this.” 

Rising from setbacks to top Accounting achiever 

From Khweha Commercial School in Limpopo, Mutshidzi Audrey Ramovha, was named the Top Achiever in Accounting in Quintile 1, 2 and 3 schools, a moment she describes as both unexpected and deeply affirming. 

“I am very happy. I didn’t expect this, but it is an amazing experience to see myself here,” she told SAnews. 

Mutshidzi’s journey was shaped by a difficult transition from Grade 9 to Grade 10, when her academic performance declined sharply. Instead of giving up, she sought support from a social worker who reminded her of her potential. 

Inspired by the strength and sacrifices of her grandmother, Mutshidzi set herself a powerful goal, which is to change her family’s story. 

“I want to be the first in my family to go to university and to give my grandmother a life that reflects her worth,” she said. 

Her determination translated into results. She earned multiple awards as the top learner in Economics, Business Studies and Accounting, and was recognised among the top three learners in her circuit.

Speaking about what carried her through, she said: “It was determination. I studied hard, even when I didn’t think I would be here. But by God’s grace, I am here.” 

Her advice to the Class of 2026 is rooted in sacrifice and focus. 

“Whatever goal or dream you have, persevere and be determined. Do what is required of you, be it morning and evening studies. Even if it means being off social media, do it. Remember your goal and remember who you are doing it for,” she said. 

Mutshidzi aspires to study Chartered Accountancy, inspired daily by the CEO of the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA), and guided by her favourite reminder: “Your background does not define your future”. 

A perfect score built on ownership and prayer 

In Mpumalanga, Siyanda Welcome Nkuna from Inkomazi Secondary School achieved what few learners ever do – 100% in Mathematics – earning 300 out of 300 marks and securing his place as the Top Achiever in Mathematics. 

For Siyanda, success came through personal accountability and faith. 

“Before I started studying, I prayed to God to help me. I had many sleepless nights, my brain was tired, but in the exam I could remember everything I had learnt,” he said. 

One of his biggest academic challenges was Organic Chemistry in Physical Sciences. Instead of blaming circumstances, Siyanda took responsibility, using online resources to master the subject and ultimately become the top-performing learner. 

He credits his teacher, Mr Mpapane, for teaching him not only Mathematics, but the value of education itself. 

“He taught me that education can change your life,” he said. 

Siyanda’s achievements include being the best Mathematics learner for the entire 2025 academic year, excelling at the SAICA June Camp, and ranking among the top learners in Mathematics, Accounting and Physical Sciences. 

Reflecting on his journey, he said: “Hard work pays off. Here I am today – it paid off.” 

Quoting scripture, Siyanda offered encouragement to the Class of 2026. 

“The pain you are feeling now is nothing compared to the joy that is coming. The pain of studying this year will be nothing compared to the joy next year,” he said. 

He plans to study Bachelor of Accounting at the University of Johannesburg, with the goal of becoming a Chartered Accountant. – SAnews.gov.za

 

235 views

Government has congratulated the matric Class of 2025 on achieving an exceptional National Senior Certificate (NSC) pass rate of 88%, marking the highest pass rate in the country.  

This as Basic Education Minister, Siviwe Gwarube, announced the 2025 Matric Results on Monday night.

In releasing the results, the Minister said KwaZulu-Natal emerged as the best performing province in the country with all other provinces performing at over 80%.

For the first time, all 75 school districts achieved a pass rate of 80% and above. Over 900 000 learners wrote the 2025 NSC examination, making it the largest class to write the examination in South Africa’s history.

“This achievement reflects positive growth in learner performance and is a clear indication of the hard work, resilience and commitment demonstrated by learners throughout their schooling journey. This success is the result of a collective effort involving learners, educators, school leadership, parents, caregivers and education stakeholders across the system,” the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) said on Monday.

READ | Class of 2025 sets new national record with historic 88% pass rate

Government is also encouraged by strong performance in key subjects and the growing number of learners qualifying for Bachelor, Diploma and Higher Certificate passes.

“These results provide a strong foundation for increased participation in post-school education and training, and for the development of critical skills required by the economy.

While government celebrates the achievement of the Class of 2025, it remains mindful of learners who did not achieve the results they had hoped for.

“These learners are reminded that an examination outcome alone does not define their worth or future prospects. Government, through the Department of Basic Education and its partners, will ensure that psychosocial support services are accessible to learners during this period,” it said.

It encouraged learners experiencing emotional distress, anxiety or disappointment to seek support through the following free and confidential services:
•    Childline South Africa: 116 (24-hour toll-free service for children and young people)
•    South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG): 0800 567 567 (24-hour toll-free)
•    Suicide Crisis Line: 0800 567 567
•    Cipla WhatsApp Chat Line: 076 882 2775.

“Learners who did not pass or get the results that they hoped for are further encouraged to explore the Second Chance Matric Programme, supplementary examinations, and alternative education and training pathways. The Second Chance Programme is provided free of charge to candidates.”

The Department of Basic Education’s Second Chance Matric Programme was established in 2016 for learners who would like to improve their results or eventually complete their matric qualification on a part-time basis.  

These pathways provide meaningful opportunities for learners to complete their schooling or acquire market-relevant skills.

“Government reaffirms its commitment to ensuring that no learner is left behind and that every young person is supported to realise their full potential. Once again, government congratulates the Class of 2025 and wishes all learners success on their future endeavours,” said government.

Earlier, Deputy President Paul Mashatile also congratulated the Class of 2025 and encouraged the matriculants to take advantage of government-supported opportunities aimed at supporting young people as they transition into higher education, skills development, and employment. – SAnews.gov.za

 

 

110 views

Deputy President, Paul Mashatile, has extended his heartfelt congratulations to the matric Class of 2025 following the release of the National Senior Certificate results.

Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube this evening announced that the matric class achieved a historic 88% National Senior Certificate (NSC) pass rate – the highest in South Africa’s history – marking a significant milestone for the basic education sector. 

The Deputy President, in a statement issued on Monday evening, commended the matriculants for their resilience, discipline, and determination in reaching this important milestone, noting that their achievement represents “both personal success and a critical contribution to the country’s future development”.

In his message, the Deputy President encouraged the matriculants to take advantage of government-supported opportunities aimed at supporting young people as they transition into higher education, skills development, and employment.

He reaffirmed government’s commitment to investing in young people and creating inclusive opportunities that enable them to participate meaningfully in the economy and society. – SAnews.gov.za

74 views