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No Disruptions as KZN Matrics Begin 2025 NSC Exams Smoothly

Published

5 hours ago

October 22, 2025

Chiraag

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Calm Confidence Marks Day One

KwaZulu-Natal’s matrics opened the 2025 National Senior Certificate (NSC) examination season on a positive note this week, with the provincial Department of Education confirming that the first day went off without a single disruption.

Across the province, thousands of pupils sat for the Computer Applications Technology Paper 1 practical exam, marking the official start of what is South Africa’s largest school examination period. From Scottburgh to Newcastle, examination centres reported smooth operations, with all systems functioning efficiently and securely.

Provincial Education MEC Sipho Hlomuka said he was pleased with how day one unfolded. “I am satisfied with the checks and balances that have been put in place to safeguard the integrity of these exams. The preparation and coordination have been outstanding,” he said while monitoring the start of exams at Scottburgh High School in the Ugu District.

Keeping the Exams Credible

Behind the scenes, the department’s focus on security and fairness remained a top priority. All question papers and materials were delivered, stored, and monitored through tightly controlled nodal points to ensure no leaks or irregularities.

The MEC commended invigilators, teachers, parents, and education officials for their dedication. “Their commitment ensures that our learners are able to perform without fear of interference,” he added.

Schools, Teachers, and Communities Stepping Up

At Scottburgh High, Hlomuka took time to chat with learners and teachers, offering encouragement ahead of the long exam stretch. The school’s principal shared that they achieved a 98% pass rate in 2024 and are confident about improving that record this year.

This optimism reflects the province’s broader performance outlook. KwaZulu-Natal’s pass rate stood at 89.5% in 2024, and education officials are determined to either match or surpass that figure.

Hlomuka emphasised that the department’s focus isn’t competition with other provinces but continuous self-improvement. “We are competing with ourselves by working to improve our own results. If that makes us number one, then we’ll celebrate, but our real goal is delivering quality education,” he said.

Community Backing Makes the Difference

Umdoni Municipality Mayor Mbali Cele-Luthuli also visited local schools, expressing confidence in the district’s performance. She reminded learners about the municipality’s registration fee assistance programme, which helps underprivileged matriculants transition into higher education.

Her message echoed a broader sentiment across the province: that education is a collective effort between schools, communities, and families.

A Confident Start

As the exams continue, KwaZulu-Natal’s strong start is being seen as a sign of stability in a province that, in previous years, has faced challenges ranging from weather disruptions to protest-related interruptions.

For now, though, the focus is firmly on success, discipline, and maintaining the calm momentum that defined day one. With 2025’s NSC exams officially underway, the province’s matrics have every reason to feel confident, and the country is watching to see them shine.