Nearly 1-million matric pupils across South Africa have made a commitment to honest and fair examinations by signing a pledge ahead of the 2026 National Senior Certificate (NSC) exams. The pledge-signing ceremonies took place at public schools across the country, including an event at the Bluegumbosch Multipurpose Centre in QwaQwa, where President Cyril Ramaphosa joined the Free State’s Class of 2026.
Basic education minister Siviwe Gwarube addressed the pupils, urging them to resist cheating and other examination irregularities. She emphasised that dishonest practices undermine the credibility of their qualifications. Gwarube encouraged pupils experiencing anxiety or struggling with their preparation to seek assistance from their teachers and schools rather than resort to dishonest practices.
The department of basic education has warned that cheating, collusion, possession of unauthorised materials or electronic devices, impersonation, and disruption will not be tolerated during the exams. Pupils were also reminded to report suspected wrongdoing through the appropriate channels. Anyone with information about a question paper that has not yet been written must immediately alert a teacher or school principal.
Deputy basic education minister Reginah Mhaule, who joined Gauteng education MEC Lebogang Maile at Riverside High School, said the pledge represented more than a commitment to follow examination rules. Mhaule stated that the learners are making a commitment not only to the examination system but to themselves and the futures they are working to build.
President Cyril Ramaphosa acknowledged the sacrifices made by pupils, their families, and teachers in preparing for the examinations. He said the final weeks of preparation marked the culmination of years of hard work and perseverance, with families and educators playing an important role in supporting pupils. Ramaphosa also recognised the achievements of pupils from poor and disadvantaged communities.
Ramaphosa highlighted the Free State’s record in the national matric results, challenging the province to reclaim the top spot after KwaZulu-Natal ended its three-year run as the country’s best-performing province in 2025. The 2026 NSC examinations will run until November 26. The president urged the Class of 2026 to remain focused and not allow a momentary lapse in judgement to jeopardise years of preparation.
Key points
- Nearly 1-million matric pupils have signed a pledge committing to honest and fair examinations ahead of the 2026 National Senior Certificate exams.
- The department of basic education has warned that cheating and other examination irregularities will not be tolerated during the exams.
- President Cyril Ramaphosa has challenged the Free State to reclaim the top spot in the national matric results.
