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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

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

Eskom says it is continuing to repair powerlines that were damaged during veld fires in the Kouga Local Municipality.

Wildfires have ravaged the Eastern Cape municipality leaving damage to, among others, homes, farms, animals and infrastructure.

“Eskom continues to work tirelessly repairing the damaged powerlines that were caused by aggressive veld fires in St Francis Bay and surrounding areas, including Twin Valley, Linderhof Lodge and River Kaya.

“Eskom is urging those customers that are still affected to remain patient as they are being prioritised and attended to,” the power utility assured.

Eskom reported that technicians are currently busy with repairs on the:

• St Francis Bay/Melkhout 22kv line – replacement of two poles.
• Melkhout/Gamtoos 22kv line – line patrolling and inspection, checking for damages.

“Customers are urged to take necessary precautions and stay safe. 

“Eskom would like to thank all affected customers for their patience and understanding displayed during the past few days,” Eskom said.

Meanwhile on Tuesday, the Kouga Local Municipality reported that the majority of fires had been contained and extinguished but warned that “emergency services remain on high alert for possible flare-ups”.

“Mopping-up operations are currently underway in the Linderhof area, as well as other affected areas, to prevent further flare-ups.

“Aerial support is once again assisting ground crews…particularly in areas where large plumes of smoke have been identified. Reports of copper cable theft and burning have been received. Residents are urged to report any suspicious activity immediately,” a municipal statement read. – SAnews.gov.za

As part of his District Development Model (DDM) mandate, Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation, Professor Blade Nzimande, will conduct an oversight visit to four schools in KwaZulu-Natal on 14 and 15 January 2026.

Schools in South Africa are today welcoming thousands of learners as they open for the 2026 academic year.

According to the department, this initiative aligns with the National Development Plan (NDP), which calls for a collective national effort involving all stakeholders to improve learning outcomes and further support several of the government’s strategic priorities.

“It further supports government’s drive to improve learner performance, reduce dropout rates, strengthen teaching and learning, and promote mathematics and science education,” the department said. 

This initiative also serves as a critical enabler for the implementation of government’s DDM, which promotes coordinated service delivery across all spheres of government.

In his capacity as DDM champion, Nzimande seeks to use this initiative to coordinate efforts to support educational development in the Harry Gwala District.

As part of the activities, the Minister will engage with the leadership and educators of various schools, officials of the Basic Education Department and other government departments, private sector partners, teachers and learners.

Nzimande is also expected to provide resources and support to learners.

The programme will also include a science career exhibition aimed at encouraging learners to pursue careers in science, technology and innovation. – SAnews.gov.za

Government has sent its best wishes to all learners as they begin the 2026 academic year on Wednesday. 

This marks an important milestone for millions of learners returning to classrooms, and those going to school for the first time, supported by dedicated teachers, school management teams, parents, and education stakeholders.

“Government calls on all stakeholders; parents, educators, learners, communities, and social partners to work together to create safe, supportive, and disciplined learning environments that enable every learner to reach their full potential.

“Government is ready to receive learners at public schools nationwide and assures parents and caregivers that learners who have not yet been placed will be allocated space,” the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) said on Wednesday. 

Provincial education departments continue to manage late applications and placement processes in line with capacity planning and infrastructure availability.

As the academic year commences, government encourages learners to remain focused, disciplined and committed to their studies. 

Good health habits such as regular attendance, adequate rest, balanced nutrition and physical activity are essential to effective learning and overall well-being. 

Learners are urged to make responsible choices that support both their academic success and personal development.

“Government is mindful of the challenges faced by communities affected by recent flash floods in parts of Limpopo Province. The safety, well-being, and continued access to education for affected learners remain a priority. The provincial department will advise when it is suitable for schooling to resume in the affected areas,” the GCIS said. –SAnews.gov.za