Students have admitted to high pressure as exams approach. Image credit: IOL
(The Post News) – The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) has declared its comprehensive readiness for the 2025 National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations, which are set to begin on October 21.
According to MEC, Matome Chiloane, a record 192 745 candidates, including over 144 000 full-time learners are registered to sit for the final examinations across 1 040 centres in the province.
The announcement comes as matriculants nationwide sign the NSC Pledge, committing to honesty and integrity throughout the month-long exam period.
“Gauteng is ready. 192 745 NSC candidates registered to sit for exams at 1 040 audited centres, with trained invigilators and strengthened security,” he said, assuring the public that extensive measures are in place to ensure a smooth and credible examination process.
“We are also continuing learner support through SSIP, High Flyer & Just-in-Time revision to improve results. A successful NSC period paves the way for learners’ futures and strengthens our education system,” he said.
Moreover, he made a firm appeal to parents, guardians, and communities to give matriculants their full support during the NSC exams and respect the exam process.
- Avoid any disruptions that could affect learners’ ability to write
- Provide a quiet, supportive environment for study and rest
- Allow learners time to prepare- not overload them with chores
- Refrain from blocking school gates or access routes, as missed exams can only be written in June 2026
Meanwhile, matriculants are grappling with the reality of the final academic hurdle, with emotions ranging from high pressure to excitement.
Thobekile Masuku, a candidate from a local high school noted the high expectations considering Gauteng’s strong performance in previous years.
“The pressure is high, Gauteng is among the provinces that have the best pass rate, especially Bachelor passes, so its all on us now,” she said.
She further showed gratitude for the academic support they received from the department throughout the year.
“The year was overwhelming but the resources and support we received from our teachers made things easy for me,” she said.
Another candidate, Thapelo Seopela, expressed his excitement.
“It’s a mix of pressure and excitement. We have worked so hard for this moment, with extra classes every weekend. For me, this is the final stretch and I am ready to put everything on the page,” he said, adding that he hopes the long hours of sacrifice will pay off.
The NSC exams will conclude on November 27, with marking scheduled to take place in early December. Results are expected to be released in mid-January 2026.
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