For thousands of Grade 12 learners across the North West, the start of the National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations marks more than just the beginning of their final assessments. It signals the closing chapter of a journey that began in Grade 1 and the start of an uncertain but hopeful transition into adulthood. As the Class of 2026 prepares to write its first examinations on Tuesday, 13 October, learners face a defining moment shaped by years of classroom lessons, friendships,…

As the final matric examinations are set to begin on Tuesday, 13 October 2026, learners have been urged to adopt healthy study habits and prioritise their mental wellbeing throughout the examination period. The Gauteng Department of Health (GDoH) reiterated this call as the examinations coincide with Mental Health Awareness Month, acknowledging the stress and pressure that often accompany this critical stage in learners’ academic journeys. The department cautioned learners against unhealthy study habits that could negatively affect their mental health,…

Suspended Deputy National Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Shadrack Sibiya has resigned from the South African Police Service (SAPS) while facing disciplinary proceedings linked to allegations of corruption and misconduct. The SAPS confirmed on Monday, that Sibiya’s employment had been terminated with immediate effect after his legal representative tendered his resignation shortly after his disciplinary hearing began. The police said his departure would be regarded as a dishonourable discharge because he had an ongoing disciplinary case against him at the time of…