Category: South Africa Government

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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The South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) has called on the public to return products containing zinc picolinate and selenium, amid safety concerns related to children.

Furthermore, health professionals are requested to cease all distribution, selling, and/or dispensing, and remove all selenium and zinc picolinate-containing products intended for use in children from stores, storage facilities and shelves.

According to SAHPRA, zinc picolinate, at any supplemental dose, can cause side effects that include indigestion, diarrhoea, headache, nausea and vomiting.

“As the bioavailability of Zn from Zn-picolinate is variable due to multiple factors, the risk of side effects may be higher and unpredictable, and it is unsuitable as a source of elemental zinc supplementation in children.

“Selenium, when supplemented to children, represents a safety concern, considering the potential differences in selenium daily intake between different population groups. 

“While selenium intake is a viable requirement for children in areas of famine or dietary restriction, the potential adverse effects of selenium overdose are of concern when provided in general supplements/medicines intended for children,” the authority warned.

The products are marketed and sold, among others, as “immune boosters” for children, with the main active ingredients being zinc (when derived from zinc picolinate) and/or selenium.

These products are indicated for supporting the treatment of colds, flu, diarrhoea, and skin-related conditions, rendering the products in question medicines that require registration by SAHPRA.

“Any medicine sold that contains zinc picolinate or selenium intended for use in children does not qualify as a Category D (complementary) medicine. As such, their sale as a Category D medicine is illegal. 

“Therefore, with effect from the date of publication of this notice, all selenium and zinc picolinate-containing products intended for use in children shall be subject to registration as a medicine falling into Category A, as defined in Section 14(2) of the Medicines and Related Substances Act, 101 of 1965, and need to be submitted to SAHPRA for registration.

 “The sale of Category D (complementary) medicines containing Zinc picolinate or Selenium and intended for use in children must be withdrawn from the market within six (6) months of the date of this publication,” the authority said. – SAnews.gov.za

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President Cyril Ramaphosa has arrived in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) at the invitation of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, to participate in the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ASDW).

The ADSW 2026, held under the theme, “Nexus of Next: All Systems Go”, brings together the global sustainability community to ignite impactful dialogues and bold ideas aimed at fostering cross-sector collaboration and delivering breakthrough solutions to advance sustainable development worldwide. 

On Tuesday, 13 January, President Ramaphosa will hold bilateral talks with Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, ahead of the ADSW Opening Ceremony. 

The President will attend the opening ceremony as well as the Zayed Sustainability Prize Awards Ceremony, which celebrates 11 winners driving real-world impact across the categories of Health, Food, Energy, Water, Climate Action and Global High Schools.

In advancing discussion on economic transformation, ethical governance, and youth empowerment, the President will address the Youth 4 Sustainability (Y4S) Forum and Hub, under the theme Leading the Just Transition: Youth, Skills, and Inclusive Growth.

The President will also participate in the Heads of State Panel discussion on the topic: “A vision for Global Energy”. 

In addition, he will also participate in a high-level session titled: Next Leap: Global South Infrastructure, which will focus on accelerating bankable, scalable infrastructure investment across the Global South. 

“South Africa maintains cordial bilateral relations with the UAE, characterised by regular high-level visits as well as robust economic cooperation, for the mutual benefit of both countries. The UAE is also a major investor in the South African economy across various sectors such as transport, logistics and renewable energy.

“During his visit, the President will also engage with leading captains of the industry and business leaders to promote investment and strengthen collaboration,” the Presidency said.

The President is accompanied by the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola; Minister in The Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni; Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Parks Tau; and the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mmamoloko Kubayi. – SAnews.gov.za

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