Matric results 2025, the wait is finally over for matriculants in South Africa as the 2025 National Senior Certificate (NSC) results are released today, January 12, 2026. The Minister of Basic Education, Ms Siviwe Gwarube, will announce the results, highlighting the country’s overall performance. The Free State province has achieved the highest pass rate, followed closely by KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) for the first time. The country has recorded an overall pass rate of 87.5%, a notable improvement from previous years. This achievement is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the Class of 2025. The results will have a significant impact on the future plans of these learners.
Free State Tops the List
Matric results 2025 for Free State province has topped the list with an impressive pass rate, showcasing the province’s commitment to academic excellence. KZN’s improvement is notable, with the province closing in on a 90% pass rate. The Eastern Cape has also shown significant improvement, registering an 85% pass rate. These provinces have demonstrated a remarkable turnaround, and their efforts are commendable. The improvement in these provinces is a result of targeted support and resources. This achievement is a positive step towards addressing the disparities in the education system.
Minister Gwarube has expressed her satisfaction with the progress made by provinces, particularly those that traditionally achieved lower pass rates. She emphasized the importance of equal support and resources for all schools. The minister’s response highlights the need for continued investment in education. The government is committed to addressing the challenges facing the education system. The minister has urged caution regarding pending educator job cuts in the Western Cape. The situation is being closely monitored to ensure that it does not negatively impact public and township schools.
While the specific highest achieving school is not yet announced, Pinelands High School’s Rayyan Ebrahim was the top candidate in South Africa last year, achieving excellent results. The school has a reputation for academic excellence and has consistently produced top-performing learners. The identity of the highest achieving school will be revealed during the official announcement. The competition is fierce, with many schools achieving impressive results. The focus is on recognizing and rewarding academic excellence. The top-performing schools will be celebrated for their outstanding achievements.
Provincial Performance
Matric results 2025 for KZN’s improvement is notable, with the province closing in on a 90% pass rate. The Eastern Cape has also shown significant improvement, registering an 85% pass rate. These provinces have demonstrated a remarkable turnaround, and their efforts are commendable. The improvement in these provinces is a result of targeted support and resources. The provinces have focused on strengthening teaching and learning. The results are a testament to the hard work of learners, educators, and parents.
Despite the progress, concerns remain about pending educator job cuts in the Western Cape, which could negatively impact public and township schools. The Select Committee on Education has urged caution and emphasized the need to strengthen teaching in public schools. The situation is being closely monitored to ensure that it does not negatively impact the education system. The government is committed to addressing the challenges facing the education system. The focus is on ensuring that all learners have access to quality education. The education system faces many challenges, but with continued support and investment, it can achieve greater success.
Umalusi’s Assurance
Umalusi, the Council for Quality Assurance in General and Further Education and Training, has reassured the public of the integrity of the 2025 NSC results, despite a confirmed leak affecting 40 learners across three subjects. The council has taken steps to address the leak and ensure the credibility of the results. The public can trust that the results are a true reflection of the learners’ abilities. Umalusi’s assurance is a testament to the robustness of the examination system. The council’s efforts to maintain the integrity of the results are commendable. The focus is on ensuring that the results are credible and reliable.⁶
Results Accessibility
Matriculants can access their results through their schools or via a secure SMS service from the Department of Basic Education (DBE). The matric results 2025 will also be published in accredited newspapers. The DBE has put in place measures to ensure that learners can access their results easily. The results will be available online and through other platforms. Learners are advised to check their results carefully and follow the necessary procedures. The DBE is committed to making the results accessible to all learners.⁷
Celebrating Success
The DBE has praised the Class of 2025 for their resilience and determination in completing Grade 12. The minister and other education stakeholders congratulate all learners, educators, and parents on this achievement. The success of the Class of 2025 is a testament to their hard work and dedication. The future is bright for these learners, and they have many opportunities ahead. The DBE is committed to supporting learners in achieving their goals. The focus is on celebrating success and recognizing the achievements of all learners.
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