The Department of Basic Education (DBE) has welcomed the successful completion of the marking of the 2025 National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations, which concluded after a three-week process on Friday.
Marking took place at 183 designated centres nationwide, following the participation of more than 900 000 candidates who wrote the examinations at over 7 000 centres across the country. The process was supported by thousands of invigilators, as well as more than 51 000 markers and moderators.Department spokesperson Terence Khala said reports from provinces indicated that the marking process was conducted efficiently and in full compliance with established quality-assurance protocols.
“Markers serve as the ultimate custodians of this high-stakes national assessment. Their steadfast commitment to accuracy, ethical conduct, and professional integrity has once again reinforced the credibility and reliability of the NSC examination system,” said Khala.
The department acknowledged the perseverance of markers, particularly as full-scale marking began on 1 December under demanding conditions. Khala singled out the marking team at Pholela Special School in KwaZulu-Natal, who continued their duties despite a severe hailstorm that caused extensive damage to their vehicles.
“Despite these challenges, the markers demonstrated remarkable resolve and completed their work,” he said.
The DBE also commended the vigilance of markers in Gauteng who identified an examination breach during the marking process. This led to the immediate suspension of two department officials after matric examination papers were leaked to learners in Pretoria.Director-General Mathanzima Mweli praised the dedication and ethical discipline of markers, emphasising their critical role in safeguarding the integrity of the NSC.
“Through your vigilance, accuracy, and professionalism, you have once again demonstrated the strength of our education system. We recognise the sacrifices you make — sacrifices no financial reward can truly match — and we thank you for your exemplary service,” Mweli said.
The marked scripts will now undergo quality assurance by Umalusi, with the 2025 NSC results scheduled for release on 12 January.Meanwhile, the department confirmed it will continue publishing matric results in the media following a recent High Court ruling. The DBE successfully challenged an order by the Information Regulator that had barred the publication of learners’ examination numbers, arguing that the restriction was inconsistent with the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA).
