Category: South Africa Government

Basic Education Minister, Siviwe Gwarube, on Wednesday undertook a back-to-school oversight visit to schools in Lethlabile, in the North West, as part of the Department of Basic Education’s Back to School programme. 

The visit formed part of government’s efforts to officially welcome learners back to school for the 2026 academic year, while assessing school readiness and reaffirming the department’s commitment to quality teaching and learning. 

Gwarube conducted monitoring visits at three local education institutions, engaging with learners, educators and the schools’ leadership to assess preparedness for the academic year. 

Her first stop was Tshenolo Primary School, where she warmly welcomed learners back to school at the start of the academic term. 

The Minister interacted with learners, creating an atmosphere of encouragement and motivation as they returned to the classroom. During the visit, Gwarube also supported the National School Nutrition Programme (NSNP) by assisting in the school kitchen and serving learners a warm, nutritious breakfast.

“This act underscores the importance of the NSNP in promoting learner well-being and readiness to learn. By ensuring that learners begin their day with a healthy meal, the programme reinforces the message that no learner can learn effectively on an empty stomach, and that nutrition remains a key pillar of academic success,” the DBE said in a series of X posts.  

The Minister further visited the Grade R classroom, where she distributed Learning and Teaching Support Materials (LTSM) and participated in a reading session with learners. 

The engagement aimed to promote early literacy and encourage a love for learning from a young age. 

Gwarube later proceeded to Eletsa Secondary School, where she was joined by North West MEC for Education, Viola Ntsetsao Motsumi. 

The leaders addressed the Class of 2026, encouraging learners to remain focused, disciplined and confident as they prepare for their final year of schooling. 

The oversight visit concluded at Itumeleng Crèche, where the Minister and MEC engaged with young learners during a reading session and observed play-based learning activities. 

The visit underscored the importance of early childhood development in building a strong foundation for lifelong learning. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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The Department of Basic Education (DBE) has encouraged learners across the country to approach the 2026 school year with renewed focus, discipline and a commitment to academic excellence. 

In a series of back-to-school messages shared on its official social media platforms, the department highlighted the importance of structured planning, consistent revision and the responsible use of educational resources as key pillars for academic success. 

According to the department, a successful school year requires focus, structure and commitment, with learners urged to approach their education with purpose and a clear plan for growth. 

For primary school learners, the department emphasised the importance of following classroom rules and routines to create a positive learning environment. Learners were also encouraged to practise foundational skills such as reading, writing and counting regularly, keep their stationery and books organised, and remember that learning improves with consistent effort. 

Secondary school learners were advised to create weekly study schedules that balance schoolwork and rest, revise classwork daily to strengthen understanding and memory, and make responsible use of teachers, libraries and online learning resources. 

The department also encouraged early preparation for assessments to reduce stress and improve performance. 

“The 2026 school year presents an opportunity for learners to refocus on their academic goals. Through structured planning, consistent revision and the responsible use of educational resources, learners can strengthen their study practices and enhance overall academic performance,” the department said. 

The department reiterated its commitment to supporting learners, parents and educators throughout the academic year, in line with the Read to Lead campaign and the goals of the National Development Plan 2030. 

Parents and guardians are encouraged to support learners by fostering positive study habits at home and engage with schools to ensure a conducive learning environment. – SAnews.gov.za

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The Limpopo Provincial Government has deployed multi-disciplinary teams to assist various areas affected by the recent heavy rainfall and flooding in the province – including in the Vhembe, Mopani, parts of Sekhukhune, Waterberg and Capricorn Districts. 

The teams will work to restore connectivity and ensure the safety of residents. 

The Provincial Disaster Management Centre (PDMC) is actively involved in rescue operations, working closely with municipalities to remove debris and restore essential services where possible. 

Residents have been urged to remain calm and be vigilant as the province responds to the situation, while adhering to guidance issued by the South African Weather Service (SAWS) and the PDMC. 

North West Premier, Dr Phophi Ramathuba, said the scale of the impact required urgent and coordinated intervention.

“We are facing a state of disaster in several districts of our province, necessitating an urgent and coordinated response involving both provincial and national government resources. We have mobilised rescue teams and advise that learners in severely impacted areas should not be compelled to attend school until support is ensured,” the Premier said in a statement. 

The Premier has directed the MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs, Basikopo Makamu, to oversee a comprehensive assessment of the situation. 

This includes evaluating the extent of damage and associated costs to inform an effective recovery strategy, as well as the possible invocation of disaster management provisions and requests for assistance from the National Disaster Management Centre. 

According to SAWS, warnings of up to level 09 remain in place, with continued heavy rainfall expected and flooding likely to persist. 

The provincial government is disseminating safety messages through various communication platforms, urging residents to avoid crossing flooded rivers and to keep children away from unsafe water bodies.

While a limited number of fatalities have been reported, particularly drownings during the December storms, the province said it continues to closely monitor the situation. Attention is being given to communities that have been cut off due to flooding. 

Provincial Emergency Medical Services (EMS) are experiencing challenges accessing some areas due to damaged roads, but efforts are underway to reach affected communities through alternative means. 

MEC Makamu has also been coordinating with district management teams and local leadership to explore funding options for the repair of damaged infrastructure. He reiterated the need for residents to prioritise safety during this period. 

The Limpopo Provincial Government acknowledged the significant disruption caused by the floods and reaffirmed its commitment to restoring normalcy. 

“The dignity and livelihoods of all residents remain a priority and the province will continue to collaborate with all relevant departments and agencies to support those affected,” the statement read. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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The Department of Social Development (DSD) has dismissed false claims circulating on social media suggesting that the COVID-19 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant is set to be terminated. 

In a statement on Wednesday, the department said it had noted with concern videos and graphics being shared on various social media platforms alleging that the SRD grant will soon come to an end. 

“The department wishes to categorically state that these claims are false. There is no such decision, announcement or directive from the department or government regarding the termination of the SRD,” the department said. 

It further warned that the unauthorised use of the official image of the Minister and the department’s logo was unlawful, particularly when used to spread misinformation. 

“Such actions are misleading and constitute a misrepresentation of government communication,” the department said. 

Members of the public have been urged to disregard the misleading content and to rely only on verified information issued through official government communication platforms. 

The department also strongly discouraged the creation and circulation of fake news, saying it causes unnecessary panic and distress among social grant beneficiaries. 

Official information related to social grants is published on the Department of Social Development’s official website, South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) and National Development Agency (NDA) platforms, verified government social media pages, as well as the department’s WhatsApp channel. – SAnews.gov.za

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Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Ronald Lamola has arrived in Juba, South Sudan, where he is leading a High-Level African Union Ad-hoc Committee of Five (C5) Visit. 

According to the department, Lamola is leading the delegation in his capacity as chairperson.

This visit, which takes place today and tomorrow, follows the previous C5 Ministerial Visit to Juba, which occurred exactly one year ago and aimed at assessing the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS).

The department announced that the visit is a precursor to a Peace and Security Council (PSC) Meeting of the African Union (AU) scheduled for 19 January 2026, which will evaluate the situation in South Sudan.

It also precedes the 39th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government and the proposed C5 Plus Summit, which will convene on the margins of the AU Assembly, which kicked off today and will conclude on Thursday. 

“The year 2026 marks a pivotal moment for South Sudan, as the country is earmarked to hold its first-ever elections since gaining independence from Sudan in July 2011. 

“The role of the C5 is to oversee the implementation of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan,” the department said.

South Sudan is currently led by a Revitalised Transitional Government of National Unity, with elections expected to be held in December 2026.

The C5 was established by the AU Peace and Security Council (AUPSC) on 5 December 2014. 

Its mandate is to enhance the AU’s support for the mediation efforts of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD).

The committee was officially launched at the 25th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State in Johannesburg on 15 June 2015.

The committee comprises one representative from each of the continent’s five regions, including Algeria, Chad, Nigeria, Rwanda, and South Africa. 

The C5, chaired by President Cyril Ramaphosa, engages in direct diplomacy with the Government of South Sudan, opposition groups, and stakeholders to promote consensus. – SAnews.gov.za

 

 

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Border Management Authority (BMA) Commissioner, Dr Michael Masiapato, has confirmed the interception of another group of undocumented children at the Beitbridge Port of Entry on Tuesday, 13 January 2026. 

According to the BMA, the interception took place at approximately 12:30 when a Junior Border Guard, deployed during the relief shift, stopped and searched a Siyaya Zimbabwe-registered minibus taxi at the port of entry. 

The vehicle was found to be transporting 33 undocumented minor children, aged between four and 15 years old, who were travelling from South Africa to Zimbabwe. 

Two adult Zimbabwean male suspects, aged 32 and 23, were arrested for allegedly facilitating the illegal movement of the children across the border.

Criminal cases have been opened against both suspects in terms of the Immigration Act, relating to the facilitation of illegal entry and movement of undocumented persons. 

All 33 minor children were immediately handed over to the Department of Social Development for further processing, in line with child protection protocols and South Africa’s domestic and international obligations to safeguard vulnerable persons. 

Masiapato commended the Junior Border Guard for his vigilance and professionalism, noting that the interception highlights the effectiveness of enhanced border management measures and the authority’s firm stance against crimes involving children. 

He further urged parents to refrain from sending undocumented children through ports of entry. 

“The Border Management Authority will not tolerate the exploitation of children or the facilitation of illegal cross-border movement. We remain committed to protecting the integrity of our borders while upholding human rights and child protection principles,” Commissioner, Dr Masiapato said. 

Investigations are ongoing, and the suspects are expected to appear in court this week. – SAnews.gov.za

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As schools reopen and daily travel routines return, the Western Cape Mobility Department has encouraged drivers to plan their journeys, drive responsibly, buckle up, adhere to speed limits, and stay vigilant on the roads. 

Today marks the start of the 2026 academic year across all provinces, with schools welcoming back thousands of students.

“By looking out for one another and prioritising the safety of vulnerable road users, we can prevent further loss of life and ensure that Western Cape roads are safer for all road users,” said Chief Director Traffic Management, Maxine Bezuidenhout. 

According to the provincial department, the Western Cape has recorded a notable reduction in weekly road fatalities compared to the previous week.

For the period 5 to 11 January 2026, the province recorded a total of 11 fatal crashes resulting in 12 fatalities on the province’s roads. 

This reflects a significant decrease from the 25 fatalities recorded between 29 December 2025 and 4 January 2026.

Of the 12 lives lost during the most recent reporting period, eight were pedestrians, two motorcyclists and two drivers, highlighting the continued vulnerability of those who are most exposed on our road network.

During 5 to 11 January, Provincial Traffic Services implemented 240 integrated roadblocks, vehicle checkpoints and speed control operations across the province. 

More than 51 000 vehicles were stopped and checked, resulting in over 15 000 fines issued for a range of traffic violations related to driver behaviour and vehicle fitness. 

According to the statement, 79 motorists were arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol, highlighting the ongoing risks posed by reckless and irresponsible driving.

The department believes that the reduction in fatalities is attributed to the sustained visibility, commitment and hard work of traffic officers as holiday travel volumes begin to ease and residents return home.

Western Cape MEC for Mobility Isaac Sileku welcomed the improvement but cautioned against becoming complacent.

“The reduction in fatalities over the past week is encouraging and demonstrates the impact of sustained and visible enforcement on our roads. However, the loss of 12 lives remains deeply tragic and unacceptable. Every fatality represents a family and a community left grieving, and this must continue to drive our collective commitment to road safety,” said Sileku.

Bezuidenhout reiterated the importance of responsible road use, particularly as the province prepares for the return to full productivity and the reopening of schools. 

“Our officers will maintain a strong presence on key routes. We urge motorists to obey the rules of the road, remain patient, and be especially mindful of vulnerable road users such as pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists, who account for a significant portion of fatalities,” said Bezuidenhout.

While the decline in fatalities over the past week is a positive development, the Western Cape reminds all road users that one life lost is one too many. – SAnews.gov.za
 

 

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Western Cape MEC for Education, David Maynier, has praised Silikamva High School for achieving a remarkable 100% matric pass rate this year – a significant improvement from its past performance, which saw a matric pass rate of only 40.4% in 2019.

Yesterday, the province celebrated the release of the individual results for the Class of 2025 at Silikamva in Hout Bay, highlighting the school’s exceptional achievements this year.

According to the Western Cape Education Department (WCED), Silikamva is a Quintile 3 no-fee school that was established in 2013. 

Given its history of challenges, this year’s results mark a notable turnaround for the school.

To improve the school’s culture, the management team decided to invest in collaboration with their partner, Common Good.

Common Good is a development organisation driving grassroots transformation in South Africa through partnerships with churches, non-government organisations (NGO), and government.

“Their decision to focus on continuous improvement, personal growth, discipline, motivating learners and staff, and building relationships with parents and the surrounding community has paid off.

“For the first time since the school was founded, the matric Class of 2025 achieved a matric pass rate of 100%,” the statement read. 

In addition, the school achieved an impressive Bachelor’s pass rate of 76%, which the provincial department views as a clear indicator of its commitment to the quality of matriculation passes. 

This focus opens up greater opportunities for their graduating learners.

The candidates from the school earned 75 subject distinctions, and they achieved a remarkable 100% pass rate in eight subjects, including Physical Science.

Principal Siphathisiwe Nkahla-Nkohla said the school’s results reflect the strong academic culture they have developed.

“The use of data to improve results, the commitment of our educators and the support of parents and our school operating partner, Common Good.

“We are proud of what has been achieved, and we look forward to our matriculating learners using this solid foundation to access further education, meaningful opportunities, and to become responsible, contributing citizens in the future,” Nkahla-Nkohla said. 

District results

The department has reported that two districts in the province achieved pass rates exceeding 90% in 2025.

The Overberg Education District leads with an impressive 92.4% pass rate, making it the third-highest district pass rate in the country, along with a Bachelor’s pass rate of 49.5%.

Following closely, the Metro East Education District secured the second spot, boasting a commendable matric pass rate of 90.2% and a Bachelor’s pass rate of 50.2%.

Additionally, all six remaining districts recorded pass rates above 80% this year.

“Across districts, the number of underperforming public ordinary schools with pass rates of 60% or below has declined even further this year, from five schools in 2024 to just two in 2025. We will support these schools over the coming year to ensure that their pass rates improve.” 

Quintile results

The department reported that the province is experiencing improvements across no-fee school quintiles, with all quintiles increasing their pass rates and achieving a pass rate above 80%.

Quintile 1 achieved a matric pass rate of 82.0% and a Bachelor’s pass rate of 36.1%. 

Quintile 2 schools also saw an increase this year, reaching a matric pass rate of 85.5% and a Bachelor’s pass rate of 38.2%. 

Quintile 3 schools recorded a rise in their performance, achieving a matric pass rate of 84.3% and a Bachelor’s pass rate of 38.9%.

The matric pass rates for Quintile 2 and Quintile 3 schools have surpassed the pass rate for Quintile 4, which stands at 83.7%.

“More importantly, the Bachelor’s pass rates for Quintiles 1, 2 and 3 all exceed that of Quintile 4 at 34.4%, demonstrating that our no-fee schools are rapidly catching up in terms of quality of matric passes.” 

Re-marks, re-checks, and June exams

The provincial department is encouraging all learners who did not pass their exams not to give up and to continue doing their best to complete Grade 12.

They can apply for a re-mark or re-check if they do not feel their results reflect their performance or write the exams in June.

More information on these options is available on the WCED website: https://www.westerncape.gov.za/education/national-senior-certificate-nsc-exams. 

Counselling support is available for matriculants who are disappointed with their results. 

They can approach their school, which will connect them with the relevant officials in the district offices. Alternatively, they can call the Safe Schools Hotline at 0800 45 46 47 for assistance.

Candidates can collect their results from their schools and on the WCED website from 10 am on 13 January 2026: https://www.westerncape.gov.za/education/exams. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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North West Premier Lazarus Kagiso Mokgosi has congratulated the North West Class of 2025 that sat for the National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations for achieving an overall pass rate of 88.49%, securing the province a commendable fourth position nationally.

On Monday, Minister of Basic Education Siviwe Gwarube announced the 2025 matric results, revealing that the country has achieved its highest-ever national pass rate of 88%, reflecting a 0.7% increase from 2024.

KwaZulu-Natal emerged as the top-performing province in the 2025 matric exams, with an impressive pass rate of 90.6%. 

It was followed by Free State at 89.33%, and Gauteng, which recorded a pass rate of 89.06%.

North West is in fourth place with 88.49%, while the Western Cape achieved a pass rate of 88.20%. 

The Northern Cape recorded 87.79%, Mpumalanga had a pass rate of 86.55%, Limpopo reached 86.15%, and the Eastern Cape closed out the rankings with a pass rate of 84.17%.

Mokgosi, speaking at the event for the release of provincial results held at Ratanang Primary School in Rustenburg on Tuesday, stated that these results reflect the substantial efforts made by government since the onset of democracy to reform and enhance the country’s education system.

“By investing in our education system, we seek to heal the divisions of the past by establishing a society based on democratic values, social justice and fundamental human rights, and in this regard, the right to education,” Mokgosi said.

He stated that the provincial government is firmly committed to financially supporting learners from disadvantaged backgrounds. 

Through the Victor Thebe Sifora Provincial Bursary Scheme, R30 million has been allocated to assist students from struggling families in pursuing their studies in various fields.

Mokgosi urged local municipalities in the province to improve the reliability and adequacy of their services. 

He warned that failures in service delivery threaten learner performance and undermine the education system as a whole.

“Teaching and learning, as well as our schools, are a microcosm of our broader developmental trajectory. And if we cannot find lasting solutions to challenges confronting our municipalities, we run the risk of putting a strain on our education system,” the Premier said.

During the announcement of the provincial performance, North West MEC for Education Viola Ntsetsao Motsumi stated that all districts improved their pass rates compared to the previous year, except Ngaka Modiri Molema District, which experienced a decrease of 0.10%.

She announced Temogo Matong from Setswakgosing Secondary School in the Kagisano-Molopo Local Municipality, located in Morokweng village, as the top-performing candidate for the North West Class of 2025.

Motsumi stated that despite targeted efforts to assist underperforming schools, the number of such schools continues to rise. 

She added that additional interventions will be implemented in the 2026 academic year.

The Premier praised the MEC, senior management of the department, parents, school governing bodies, teacher unions, faith-based organisations, and traditional leadership, among others, for ensuring that learner development remains a shared responsibility.

As the back-to-school campaign begins, the Premier is currently monitoring the readiness of Sentlhaga Primary School in Wolmaranstad, Maquassi Hills Local Municipality, to start the 2026 school calendar. – SAnews.gov.za

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Higher Education and Training Minister Buti Manamela has encouraged prospective students who need guidance in accessing the Post-School Education and Training (PSET) system to make use of the Central Application Service (CAS). 

Manamela said that in previous years, the department introduced the Central Applications Clearing House (CACH) as a short-term intervention to match unplaced applicants with available spaces. 

However, from the 2026 academic year, CACH will be discontinued as part of broader reforms to the PSET application process. 

“CAS has been designed as a more comprehensive, integrated and long-term solution to improve access, visibility and coordination across the entire PSET system. CAS will progressively make visible a wider range of pathways beyond traditional university and college routes, while also helping to eliminate bogus institutions and protect prospective students from exploitation,” the Minister said in a statement on Tuesday. 

Students seeking information, guidance and support can WhatsApp the CAS Chat number 081 308 4196. 

Warning against bogus colleges 

The department has also warned prospective students to be vigilant against illegal colleges, noting that such institutions are not registered as required by law and do not offer credible qualifications. 

Manamela said qualifications offered by private skills development providers must be quality assured by the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO), Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs) and the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA). 

“Bogus colleges often exploit this period of transition, charging fees without providing recognised qualifications. Information on registered and accredited institutions is available on www.dhet.gov.za” 

The Minister further appealed to all private education providers to comply with the law and not mislead students, urging parents and prospective learners to conduct due diligence before making any payments. 

Student wellness and emotional support 

Acknowledging that the transition from school to further study or training can be emotionally challenging, Manamela said the department, through Higher Health, provides free and confidential psychosocial and mental health support services to students and prospective students entering the higher education system. 

“Students requiring emotional or mental health support are encouraged to contact the 24-hour Higher Health Helpline on 0800 36 36 36 for assistance with stress, anxiety or crisis-related concerns,” he said. 

Expanded funding opportunities and SETA bursaries 

The Minister also announced that more than 15 000 SETA bursaries have been made available to support students who do not qualify for the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) funding, particularly those in the so-called “missing middle” and in scarce skills areas critical to economic growth. 

He said the bursaries support studies at universities and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges, covering tuition, learning materials and other study-related costs, forming part of government’s broader strategy to widen access to post-school opportunities. 

“As you embark on this next phase of education, training and upskilling, remain focused, disciplined, and open to the many pathways available to you. Every route of learning matters, and each contributes to building a capable, inclusive, and productive society,” the Minister said. 

Practical guidance for students and parents 

The department has advised students and parents to rely only on official communication channels when engaging with institutions or funding bodies. 

Learners are encouraged to regularly check emails, SMS notifications and institutional portals, and to keep copies of application reference numbers and correspondence. 

Manamela emphasised that no individual or organisation can guarantee placement or accommodation in exchange for payment, warning that such claims should be treated with caution. 

He encouraged students who do not immediately receive offers to explore alternative pathways, including TVET colleges, Community Education and Training colleges, higher certificates, bridging programmes and learnerships, rather than abandoning post-school education altogether. 

“Accommodation is limited and allocated separately from academic admission, and confirmation should always be secured before making travel arrangements. Parents are encouraged to provide emotional support and reassurance during this period.

“Delays, waiting lists or initial disappointment do not mean the end of educational opportunities. South Africa’s post-school education and training system offers multiple entry points and second-chance pathways, and informed, calm decision-making will help young people navigate this transition successfully,” Manamela said. – SAnews.gov.za

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