The Department of Basic Education (DBE) has called on parents and communities to actively support learners to ensure the 2026 matriculation examinations proceed smoothly across South Africa. The National Senior Certificate (NSC) exams are scheduled to start on 13 October and conclude on 25 November 2026.
Deputy Minister of Basic Education, Dr Reginah Mhaule, emphasised the importance of a supportive home environment for learners, saying, “We are calling upon parents and communities to support this writing of the examination. Our examinations and our learners are ready; universities are ready to receive them, so let’s not make anything too difficult for them.”
Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube reaffirmed the readiness of all exam candidates, noting that 962,832 learners have registered for the 2026 NSC, including 815,051 full-time and 147,781 part-time candidates. Speaking at a media briefing, she said, “All candidates have been provided with all the support they would need to perform, and I am happy to declare that learners are ready for the 2026 NSC exams.”
The call for parental and community support follows a cabinet briefing on 29 September, which urged guardians to foster stable home environments conducive to study and rest during the examination period. Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni also encouraged learners to organise realistic study schedules and to seek help from teachers or peers when facing difficulties with their coursework.
This nationwide appeal comes as part of the DBE’s broader efforts to protect exam integrity and learner wellbeing amid persistent challenges in the broader education system. The department’s readiness measures include examination security protocols, resource distribution to schools, and psychological support programmes aimed at easing exam stress.
By ensuring that learners receive encouragement, structure, and quiet spaces at home, the department hopes to mitigate disruptions and support learners to achieve their best possible outcomes. The NSC results remain critical not only for individual futures but also for meeting national education goals and preparing youth for tertiary education and employment.
Cape Flats News will continue to monitor developments as the examination period approaches to report on local-level preparations and any emerging issues affecting candidates in the Western Cape.