920 000 Matrics Reach Halfway Point As Exams Run Smoothly Across South Africa

More than 920 000 matric learners across South Africa are officially halfway through their 2025 National Senior Certificate (NSC) exams, and so far, the process is running without major hiccups.

The Department of Basic Education (DBE) has praised the “stable and disciplined” manner in which this year’s examinations have unfolded, noting that its nationwide coordination efforts have paid off.

Smooth Sailing So Far

According to DBE spokesperson Terence Khala, exams across all nine provinces have remained on track, with minimal interruptions.

“We are pleased to report that the administration of the exams has remained stable across the country,” Khala said. “Where incidents have occurred, our contingency plans were swiftly activated to protect the integrity of the exams.”

The exams are being written at over 6 800 centres nationwide, marking one of the largest academic operations on the continent.

Minor Hurdles Handled With Care

While there were reports of small administrative delays and community protests in some regions, the DBE confirmed that these were resolved quickly through collaboration with local law enforcement and education officials.

Crucially, not a single exam session was missed due to disruptions a major win considering the scale of the operation.

Many teachers have praised the department’s efficiency this year, with some noting that communication lines between provincial offices and schools have been “clearer and faster than ever before.”

Learners React To Tough Maths Papers

Social media was buzzing earlier this week as learners voiced mixed reactions to Mathematics Papers 1 and 2. Some students admitted the questions were “on another level,” while others found them “fair but demanding.”

In response, the DBE reminded candidates that the papers are designed to test a range of skills, from basic understanding to higher-order problem-solving. The department reassured learners that fairness will be ensured through Umalusi’s scientific moderation process.

“No learner will be disadvantaged if any paper is found to be more difficult than anticipated,” the DBE said in a statement.

What’s Next

The 2025 matric exams are expected to conclude in early December, followed by marking, moderation, and the highly anticipated release of results in January.

For many learners, this halfway milestone marks both relief and renewed focus. As one matriculant from Soweto shared on X: “Halfway there! Stress levels high but we keep pushing. Class of 2025, we got this!”

A Nation Cheering You On

With the end now in sight, the country continues to rally behind its matriculants a generation navigating one of the most crucial chapters of their lives with resilience and hope.

As schools, parents, and communities keep providing support, the message is clear: South Africa’s Class of 2025 is on course to finish strong.

{Source:The South African}

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