Category: South Africa Government

The Matric Class of 2025 has 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 national pass rate represents an increase of approximately 0.7 percentage points from 2024 and was met with resounding applause when announced by Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube during the official release of the results on Monday evening at Mosaïek Church in Fairlands. 

More than 900 000 full time and part time candidates wrote the matric examinations at approximately 6 000 centres across the country, making it the largest cohort to sit for the NSC exams. Of these, over 656 000 learners successfully passed. 

Congratulating the Class of 2025, the Minister acknowledged their resilience and determination. 

“To the Class of 2025, I say: congratulations on a record-breaking 88% pass rate. Siyazingca ngani. Nisebenzile. You have shown resilience – not only in these examinations, but across years of learning in a country that has asked much of you. South Africa sees you. 

“And to the learners of our no-fee schools: you have shown the country what is possible. You have proven that talent lives everywhere and that when we strengthen the roots, hope becomes an outcome, not a slogan,” Gwarube said. 

Addressing educators, learners, parents and stakeholders, Gwarube confirmed that the results had been quality-assured and approved by Umalusi, affirming the credibility and integrity of the examination process. 

“We can have confidence: these results are earned, not gifted. South Africans, we must also put a stubborn myth to rest: 30% is not ‘the matric pass mark’. 

“The NSC is earned by meeting minimum requirements across a full subject package – including higher thresholds in key subjects, with different pass types that open different pathways after school,” the Minister said. 

She extended her gratitude to the entire education sector for their contribution to attaining this year’s pass rate. 

“To every Premier, every MEC, every Head of Department, every district director, every principal, and every teacher: these outcomes are built day by day, term by term, year by year – and we honour the work behind them,” she said.

Provincial performance 

KwaZulu-Natal emerged as the best performing province in the country, achieving a pass rate of 90.6%, followed closely by the Free State at 89.33% and Gauteng at 89.06%. 

Northern Cape was the most improved province with 87.79% in sixth place. 

For the first time, all 75 school districts across the country recorded pass rates of 80% and above, pointing to more evenly spread performance across provinces. 

Quality of passes and system stability 

While the overall pass rate reached a new high, the Minister emphasised that quality remains a key concern. 

The proportion of Bachelor passes – which provide access to university degree studies – declined slightly from 48% in 2024 to 46% in 2025. 

However, in absolute numbers, more learners than ever before achieved Bachelor passes, increasing by 8 700 to over 345 000 candidates. 

Diploma passes accounted for 28% of results, while 13.5% of candidates achieved Higher Certificate passes. 

The results also reflect a more stable education system, with the majority of candidates writing matric at the expected age of 18, and a sharp decline in the number of learners unable to complete their exam papers – down from about 17% in 2017 to around 2% in 2025. 

Girls continued to outperform boys in participation, making up 56% of the matric cohort. The Minister cautioned, however, that the growing underrepresentation of boys in Grade 12 and post-school pathways requires urgent intervention. 

“But the boy child is increasingly being left behind, becoming underrepresented in matric cohorts and less likely than girls to return through second-chance pathways. This imbalance requires urgent and targeted intervention,” the Minister said. 

Gateway subjects under pressure 

Despite overall progress, performance in key gateway subjects declined. 

The Mathematics pass rate dropped from 69% to 64%, while Accounting fell from 81% to 78%. Physical Science showed a marginal improvement, increasing from 76% to 77%. 

Only 34% of candidates wrote Mathematics, with the majority opting for Mathematical Literacy – a trend the Minister described as concerning for long-term access to scarce skills and economic participation.

“So, as we celebrate, we do so with clear eyes. The next phase is about deeper mastery – especially in gateway subjects. It is about increasing the number of learners taking and excelling in Mathematics, Physical Science and other gateway subjects with support, so opportunity expands without quality collapsing,” Gwarube said. 

Equity and no-fee schools 

The 2025 results highlighted continued progress in expanding opportunity for learners from disadvantaged backgrounds. More than 66% of Bachelor passes were achieved by learners from no-fee schools, reinforcing the message that poverty is not destiny. 

In addition, participation by learners with special education needs increased by 57%, with notable improvements in both pass rates and Bachelor-level achievements. 

However, concerns were raised about the performance of learners reliant on social grants. 

While more grant beneficiaries wrote the exams, their pass rate declined to 78%, compared to 86% previously. The Minister said the department will engage with the Department of Social Development to prevent the discontinuation of grants during learners’ matric year.

A new course for basic education 

Gwarube said the record-breaking results reflect a system that is stabilising, but warned against complacency. 

“Taken together, these results tell a clear story. The system is more stable. Participation is improving. Inclusion is expanding. Integrity is holding firm. But the results also confirm the central truth of our reform agenda: without strong foundations in the early years, inequity will always return later. 

“The new course we have set for the basic education system is defined by deep roots, strong foundations and long vision,” she said. 

The department’s reform agenda, she explained, is focused on strengthening early childhood development, improving early grade reading and numeracy, expanding teacher support, and ensuring learner safety and nutrition. 

The Minister assured those who did not pass that alternative pathways and second-chance opportunities remain available. 

“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,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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There were cheers, ululations, and whistles as the Minister of Basic Education, Siviwe Gwarube, announced that KwaZulu-Natal has emerged as the top-performing province in the 2025 matric exams. 

The province achieved an impressive 90.6% pass rate, setting a new benchmark for educational excellence in South Africa.

The Minister was speaking at the Mosaic Church in Randburg, Johannesburg, on Monday evening, where she announced the National Senior Certificate (NSC) examination results. 

In her passionate address, the Minister emphasised the significance of this achievement, stating that these results represent not merely numbers but were a testament to the collective efforts of educators, learners, and communities nationwide.

“Over 656 000 learners passed the National Senior Certificate. That figure carries the effort of every teacher, every learner, families in every corner of our country,” the Minister said. 

KwaZulu-Natal’s stellar performance is part of a broader national trend, with the country achieving its highest-ever pass rate of 88% – a 0 .7% increase from 2024. 

KwaZulu-Natal is followed by the Free State, which achieved a pass rate of 89.33%. 

Gauteng came next with a pass rate of 89.06%, followed by North West at 88.49%. 

The Western Cape recorded a pass rate of 88.20%, and the Northern Cape achieved 87.79%, marking a significant improvement. 

Mpumalanga had a pass rate of 86.55%, while Limpopo increased to 86.15%. 

Finally, the Eastern Cape achieved a pass rate of 84.17%. 

The Minister stressed that these results represent more than just academic success. 

“The system is more stable, participation is improving, inclusion is expanding, integrity is holding firm.”

The Minister contextualised the achievement within a larger educational transformation agenda. “This is not a rejection of the past. It is crossing into new territory, informed by experience, guided by evidence, and anchored in foundations strong enough to carry the future.” 

The success also underscores the deep connection between social grants and educational outcomes.

While more social grant beneficiaries wrote the NSC exams in 2025, 78% of these candidates passed, down from 86% previously. 

The Minister noted that candidates with active social support performed significantly better, underscoring the importance of holistic support for learners.

To the Class of 2025, the Minister’s message was one of hope and resilience. “You have shown the country what is possible. You have proven that talent lives everywhere, and that when we strengthen the roots, hope becomes an outcome, not a slogan.” 

Speaking to SAnew, KwaZulu-Natal Education MEC Sipho Hlomuka, demonstrated unwavering optimism and a strategic approach to overcoming systemic obstacles that his province faced last year. 

“We convert challenges to solutions,” the MEC said, underlining the department’s commitment to excellence despite financial constraints.

Addressing the critical issue of limited resources, Hlomuka shared a profound perspective on how the province navigated the financial crisis that also had a spillover effect on their school nutrition programme. 

“Even from your home, you want many things, but you can’t get them. The little that you get, you appreciate it, and you use what you have.”

He believes that this philosophy extends directly to the education sector, where resourcefulness has become key to success.

The MEC said the provincial department’s strategy centres on comprehensive engagement, noting that “education is a societal matter. It needs everyone”.

Hlomuka said this approach involves collaborating with various stakeholders, including educators, parents, and unions, to create a holistic support system for learners.

“We’re not focusing only on Grade 12. We’re also focusing on foundation, because a house that doesn’t have a proper foundation, that house is deemed to fail,” the MEC explained, emphasising the importance of early educational support. 

Despite significant budget challenges in 2025, the MEC remains optimistic.

The province has already begun the early opening of schools and is focusing on completing the syllabus ahead of time to allow for revision.

He expressed his gratitude to the teachers and learners who contributed to this achievement. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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In a comprehensive progress report, the Director-General of the Department of Basic Education, Hubert Mathanzima Mweli, has revealed significant developments in South Africa’s education landscape, highlighting both achievements and ongoing challenges facing the nation’s school system.

“The National Development Plan drives the work that we do every day,” Mweli said, underlining the strategic vision guiding basic education.

“If you are in basic education, when you wake up every morning, what will come to your mind is to deliver on the imperatives of the National Development Plan.”

Mweli provided a detailed technical briefing on the 2025 National Senior Certificate (NSC) examination cycle, including system readiness, marking and moderation processes, standardisation outcomes and integrity assurance measures.

The technical briefing took place at the Mosaïek Church in Fairlands, Johannesburg, ahead of the official announcement of the 2025 NSC examination results by Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube on Monday evening.

WATCH | Matric results technical briefing 

According to the Director-General, the education sector has experienced substantial growth. “We’ve seen the growth of over 200 000 learners that got into the system.” 

Challenges 

However, he candidly acknowledged that this growth has not been proportionally matched by an increase in teachers or schools.

The report addressed multiple challenges, including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on learning.  

“This class experienced a number of disruptions,” he said, referring to the Class of 2025, which started Grade 8 in 2021 at the height of the pandemic.

The pandemic led to rotational timetables, reduced contact time with teachers and a curriculum that was not fully covered.

Vocational training

The Director-General (DG) stressed the critical importance of vocational training. “The future holds better for those who follow the technical scheme,” he said. 

President Cyril Ramaphosa has since challenged the department to increase technical subject enrolments, with an ambitious goal of establishing “a technical school for every circuit” in the country.

The presentation highlighted growing support for learners with special educational needs. 

“Experts are saying you also measure [a country’s development] by the extent to which it looks after its most vulnerable,” the DG explained, noting an increase of over 4 000 learners with special education needs.

While celebrating the successful management of national examinations, Mweli did not shy away from discussing challenges. 

He acknowledged a leaked question paper incident, praising the national investigation team for their diligent work during the festive season.

READ | Results of alleged 2025 matric exam cheats to be delayed

One of the most positive notes was the performance of female learners.

“Female learners are doing exceptionally well. The data seems to tell a different story… girls are coming back, and girls are coming back better than boys.”

Future outlook

The Director-General remained optimistic, emphasising the continuous improvement and commitment to educational excellence. 

“We need to up our psychosocial support, not only in Grade 12, but even from the lowest grade, covering both learners and teachers,” he concluded.

Mweli revealed remarkable progress in the country’s educational landscape, showcasing an impressive 82% success rate and an upward trajectory that challenges previous expectations.

“I told people this, that I served in this sector when we’re at 50% and below 50% and below, we never tried that it would happen in our in our lifetime that will have a performance at 80%,” said the Director-General. 

“I challenge colleagues. I said 90% must happen in our lifetime.”

Meanwhile, provinces like Mpumalanga and KwaZulu-Natal have emerged as leaders in various academic metrics. 

Mpumalanga leads in progress learners’ performance with 54.30%, while KwaZulu-Natal dominates in bachelor passes and distinctions.

The Director-General highlighted a “silent revolution” where the distribution of bachelor passes is becoming more equitable.

“In 2000 and before, 80% of bachelors were accounted for by 20% of affluent schools. In 2025, you can see we’ve moved leaps and bounds.

“In the next five to 10 years, we need to look at 80% of bachelors coming from quintile one to three schools,” he said. 

The presentation acknowledged slight performance drops in some areas, particularly noting that learners receiving social grants saw a percentage decrease from 86.06% to 77.70%, though the absolute number of passing learners increased.

“There’s no justice for human beings,” the Director-General stated, emphasising that every learner deserves an opportunity, including progressed learners who can still achieve remarkable results. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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With many of the Class of 2025 celebrating their hard work after passing their matric exams, the Gauteng Department of Health is urging those who did not perform well to make use of free mental health services available at primary health care facilities in Gauteng.

This as the Minister of Basic Education (DBE), Siviwe Gwarube, is set to preside over the release of the 2025 Matric Results on Monday evening. Results of the exams will be released to candidates on 13 January 2026.

“While this period marks achievement for many learners, it is also an emotionally difficult time for those who may not have passed or did not obtain the results required for their preferred higher education programmes. The department reminds learners that matric results do not define their worth or determine their future,” it said in a statement on Monday.

The provincial department added that while not achieving the desired outcome was a setback, it was not the end. 

“Young people are urged not to make permanent decisions based on temporary circumstances and to seek help when they feel overwhelmed. Learners who are experiencing emotional distress, depression or suicidal thoughts are encouraged to make use of free mental health services available at primary health care facilities in Gauteng.”

Any person requiring services can present at their nearest primary health care facility.

“Where necessary, clients will be referred for further specialist mental health services. The department also works closely with organisations that provide immediate emotional and suicide prevention support,” it said.

Learners, parents and caregivers are encouraged to contact the following toll-free support services: South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) Suicide Prevention Line on 0800 567 567; Suicide Crisis Line on 0800 21 22 23 or 0800 12 13 14; Hope line on 0800 467 347 or 0800 611 197; or SMS 31393 for support. 

The department also urged communities to offer support, listen without judgment and encourage young people to speak openly about their feelings. 

“The Gauteng Department of Health remains committed to ensuring access to mental health care and protecting the well-being of learners during this critical period,” it said.

Earlier, the Gauteng Provincial Government, urged matric learners to access their 2025 examination results through the Gauteng Matric Results Online System.

READ | Gauteng learners urged to make use of online system for matric results 
–SAnews.gov.za

 

 

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The Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Criminality, Political Interference and Corruption in the Criminal Justice System, commonly known as the Madlanga Commission, will resume its public hearings on 26 January 2026.

The commission delivered its interim report to President Cyril Ramaphosa on 17 December 2025, three months after the first hearing took place on 17 September 2025.

“The Commission will continue where it left off in December 2025, hearing evidence from persons who have been implicated in the serious allegations made by Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi and many other witnesses who corroborated or substantiated those allegations last year.

“As part of its remaining work, dozens of witnesses are due to appear before the Commission over the next few months,” said a statement issued by Jeremy Micheals, the spokesperson for the Commission.

The Commission’s evidence leaders, investigators, secretariat and support staff have been working over the recess period to prepare for the hearings.

“Phase One was dedicated to establishing what factual foundation there was for the allegations of Lieutenant-General Mkhwanazi. During this phase, the Commission received evidence from witnesses able to substantiate the allegations that prompted its establishment. However, the evidence was not subjected to testing questioning in Phase One.

“Phase Two provides persons implicated in Phase One an opportunity to respond to the allegations made against them and, where applicable, to make their own allegations.

“Alongside the responses to the allegations of Lieutenant-General Mkhwanazi and the witnesses supporting him, Phase Two also provides for the ventilation of other issues falling within the Commission’s Terms of Reference but not addressed in Phase One.

“Phase Three will provide for the recall of Lieutenant-General Mkhwanazi and the witnesses supporting his allegations.

“In this phase, the earlier evidence of the lieutenant-general and supporting witnesses will be subjected to testing questioning and they will have the opportunity to reply to any evidence adduced against them in Phase Two,” said the Commission.

It said it was important to note that the work of the Commission was dynamic and was part of an ongoing process.

“Issues of crucial significance to the Commission’s mandate will be addressed in further hearings even if they do not fall neatly into the three phases,” said the Commission.

Anyone who wishes to provide the Commission with further information which falls within the Terms of Reference can do so anonymously and confidentially by contacting the Commission’s hotline at 0800 111 369 or by email at madlangacommission@behonest.co.za. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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The Department of Health has urged parents and caregivers to immediately discontinue the use of the affected Nestlé NAN products, in accordance with the National Consumer Commission recall notice. 

The product (Special Pro HA Infant Formula 0-12 months, batch number 51660742F3 and best before date 15 December 2026) is intended for the specific dietary management of infants with allergic reactions to cow’s milk.

The product is sold in an 800g can and has been on the market since  September 2025.

“The product recall follows the identification of a potential presence of cereulide, a toxin produced by Bacillus cereus, which constitutes a food safety concern. 

“The contamination of the product is traced back to the manufacturing plant in Germany, which produces the products for countries, including South Africa,” the Health Department said.

It has confirmed with the European Union authorities, as well as Nestlé, that South Africa has only received this implicated batch. No other products or batch numbers are affected. 

The department is in close contact with Nestlé, the National Consumer Commission and other relevant stakeholders, to ensure the necessary steps are taken in line with strict food quality and safety protocols.

“Appropriate actions are being implemented to ensure the health and wellbeing of all babies. No illnesses have been confirmed in connection with the affected products, but parents and caregivers are urged to look out for symptoms such as severe or persistent vomiting, diarrhoea or unusual lethargy, especially when using any infant formula.

“Concerned parents should feel free to speak to healthcare providers regardless of the presence of the symptoms in babies. Consumers should check the product packaging for the recalled product batch number to verify if it is impacted,” the department urged.

Consumers in possession of the affected product are urged to return the product to the point of purchase for a full refund. 

The department has reaffirmed its commitments to promote and support breastfeeding as the optimal way of feeding infants and young children.

“Exclusive breastfeeding is recommended for the first six months. From six months up to 2 years or beyond, breastmilk remains an important source of nutrition and protection against illnesses while the child gradually learns to eat solid foods. 

“There is no need for the public to panic. The department will keep parents, caregivers and the public informed on the developments related to the product recall.” –SAnews.gov.za

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With the matric results due to be available to the class of 2025 on Tuesday, the Gauteng Provincial Government (GPG) is making it easier for matriculants to access their 2025 examination results through the Gauteng Matric Results Online System.

“Recognising that results day can be both exciting and stressful for learners, the system has been designed with accessibility and ease of use in mind. Matriculants can check their results instantly on their smartphones, tablets, or other digital devices, allowing them to access their results in a private and supportive environment, at a time and place that suits them,” the provincial government said.

By providing a reliable digital platform, the GPG is supporting learners as they reach a major milestone in their academic journey and prepare for the next phase of their education, training, or career pathways.

Gauteng MEC for the Department of e-Government, Bonginkosi Dhlamini, said the system empowers learners by ensuring that critical academic information is available directly to them in a secure and protected manner.

“This digital platform ensures that matriculants can access their results easily and securely, while maintaining the privacy they deserve as they reflect on their achievements and prepare to take their next steps after completing school,” said MEC Dhlamini.

To access your 2025 matric results, simply visit https://results.gauteng.gov.za/ , enter your examination number, and click “search.”

The Department of Basic Education (DBE) is set to release the 2025 Matric Results on Monday evening, 12 January 2026. Results of the exams will be released to candidates on 13 January 2026.

Meanwhile, the DBE recently announced that the results of the 2025 National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations will be published in accredited newspapers  on Tuesday, 13 January 2026. 
–SAnews.gov.za

 

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The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued an Orange Level 9 and Orange Level 6 warning for disruptive rainfall over the eastern parts of Limpopo and Mpumalanga for Monday and Tuesday. 

These weather conditions will also affect the extreme north-eastern parts of KwaZulu-Natal on Tuesday.

This is due to a persistent low-pressure system that is currently affecting the north-eastern regions of South Africa, bringing in significant amounts of rainfall.

The Orange Level 6 warning indicates a high likelihood of disruptive rainfall, with significant impacts including flooding of roads and settlements, and danger to life due to fast-flowing streams and deep waters. 

Major roads may be flooded or closed, and major disruptions to traffic flow could occur. 

The Orange Level 9 warning represents a medium likelihood of disruptive rainfall, with severe impacts, including widespread and dangerous flooding, the closure of major roads and bridges, significant damage to infrastructure and settlements, and an increased risk of injuries and danger to life, particularly in low-lying and flood-prone areas.

“Communities in affected areas should avoid flooded roads, rivers, or streams, as even shallow water can be dangerous, and never attempt to cross flowing water. Property, livestock, and belongings should be secured or moved to higher ground, and outdoor activities should be re-evaluated or postponed, especially in flood-prone areas. 

“It is important to stay indoors during heavy rain and thunderstorms, avoid unnecessary travel, and follow instructions from local authorities and disaster management services,” the weather service said.

Residents should check on vulnerable family members and neighbours; prepare for possible evacuation by identifying safe locations and essential items, and take immediate precautions to reduce risks to life, property and livelihoods during this period of severe weather.

The public is urged to stay informed by regularly monitoring official SAWS updates and warnings via radio, TV, and social media.

The SAWS will continue to closely monitor this weather system and issue regular updates as conditions change. – SAnews.gov.za

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South Africa’s top matric achievers for 2025 have spelled out the key attributes required for academic excellence: a strong support system, hard work, focus and determination.

On Monday, 40 of the country’s top learners were celebrated as the cream of the crop for the 2025 National Senior Certificate exams – an achievement not to be taken lightly, as they wrote exams with at least 900 000 other candidates.

A learner, who had to lean particularly hard on her support system, is Simesihle Khuzwayo from King Bhekuzulu College in KwaZulu-Natal, who fell ill and was hospitalised during the school year.

“My teachers were very supportive and I would ask them questions even at 1am and they would answer. I would even chase after them in the staff room to get past papers or tests to do. But they were there for me and always told me that I can do it.

“My mother also looked for tutors for me. My twin sister would bring worksheets for me when I’m not at school and would tell me about assignments, and tasks that need to be completed. They were all very supportive,” she told SAnews.

The learner’s mother, Tholakele Bhutelezi, described the year as a “very difficult” one.

“I had to be strong in front of her but when I’d go to the bathroom, I’d just cry. There were times I’d have to leave her twin at home and go to the hospital.

“I was very worried about what would happen with her schoolwork and that she’ll miss out on a lot of content. But her sister would come with everything that she needed.

“But now, I am very proud and I just cried tears of joy now. I knew she would make it and I thank God,” Bhutelezi said.

Johannesburg-based Jeppe High School for Girls learner, Nchongatakor Besong, told SAnews that living a balanced life is key to achieving matric ambitions, while enjoying the final year of school.

“It was stressful, as expected. But overall, I think when you have a good support system, when you have a well-rounded life doing cultural activities and go out with friends, it helps.

“When you have a healthy outlet, you can properly focus on your academics as well,” she said.

Angie Ntuli, a learner from Phumzile Secondary School in Mpumalanga, added: “Matric was not easy at all. I realised that Grade 12 will not be an easy road. It needs one to have perseverance, to be disciplined and to not give up.

“It is through the support that I got from especially my mom, friends, family as well as my school teachers that I was able to make it as a top achiever”.

Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube will announce the results of the 2025 National Senior Certificate exams from 6pm today. – SAnews.gov.za

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South Africa’s top matriculants should be celebrated not just for their results, but for the determined pursuit of excellence that drove them to the top of the 2025 Matric class.

This according to Minister of Basic Education, Siviwe Gwarube, who addressed the Ministerial Breakfast celebrating the National Senior Certificate (NSC) Class of 2025 top achievers.

Reflecting on a story based in Greek mythology about a man condemned to pushing a boulder up a hill, the Minister likened this toil to the one South Africa’s brightest stars endured.

“[This] story matters today because every learner we celebrate this morning knows something about pushing a boulder uphill: the late nights, early mornings, setbacks, pressure, self-doubt, and the quiet decision, again and again, to keep going.

“And today, we gather not just to celebrate the summit you reached, but the pursuit of excellence that brought you here,” Gwarube said.

She told the learners that their remarkable achievements stand as a testament to what hard work and determination can accomplish.

“You have not only passed; you have excelled. In doing so, you have expanded what is possible for yourselves, your families, and your communities. You have shown that excellence is not reserved for a privileged few, but is earned through discipline, resilience, and focus.

“But let me say this clearly: this moment is not the end of your journey. It is the beginning of a new climb.

“There will be other hills. Other boulders. Other moments when progress feels slow or setbacks feel heavy. Do not be discouraged when the climb becomes steep again. Remember what you have already proven that you can persevere, that you can adapt, and that you can rise,” she said.

A word of appreciation was spared for the support systems behind the learners and the teachers who travelled the journey with them.

“To the parents and guardians in the room: today also belongs to you, as much as it belongs to your children.

“Behind every high-achieving learner is a home that made sacrifices. A home that chose discipline over comfort, encouragement over despair. You carried emotional, financial, and psychological weight so that your children could focus on learning. You pushed your own boulders – sometimes silently, sometimes exhausted, often without recognition.

“To the teachers watching from classrooms, staff rooms, across the country as they prepare to receive learners Back-To-School: this celebration is yours too. Teachers are the quiet architects of excellence. You see potential before it becomes visible,” Gwarube said.

The learners are encouraged to carry forward the “curiosity, effort, humility and grit” that carried them through the exams.

“South Africa needs not only your intelligence, but your character. May you carry this lesson with you: that excellence is not only found at the top of the hill, but in the climb itself.

“Congratulations to each and every one of you. South Africa is proud of you. The future is brighter because of you,” Gwarube concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

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