Umalusi, the quality assurance council, has confirmed that preparations for the 2026 final examinations are on track. In a readiness statement, the council stated that the examination system was broadly ready, with assessment bodies implementing corrective measures for remaining concerns. These concerns were not deemed systemic and did not threaten the examinations' overall credibility or integrity. The responsible bodies have been instructed to address them before examinations begin.
The Department of Basic Education reported marker shortages in Afrikaans Home Language, English Home Language, and History. Umalusi expressed confidence that starting marking early and phasing the process would mitigate the risk and would continue monitoring those measures. The council held its briefing in Pretoria on 8 October, reviewing public and private assessment bodies responsible for the National Senior Certificate, National Certificate Vocational Level 4, and adult basic education examinations.
An assessment of the Department of Higher Education and Training's marking capacity remains pending while it completes marker appointments. Umalusi stated it would pronounce on that capacity on or before 19 October. The examinations covered by Umalusi's assessment have 1,079,879 registered candidates across 9,183 centres. This includes 989,141 National Senior Certificate candidates, 44,322 National Certificate (Vocational) Level 4 candidates, and 46,416 General Education and Training Certificate: Adult Basic Education and Training candidates.
The Department of Basic Education's published examination countdown lists 13 October as the start of its National Senior Certificate schedule and 26 November as the final date. Those dates apply to the DBE schedule; the briefing also covered other assessment bodies and qualifications. Umalusi's advisory stated that the review covered various assessment bodies and qualifications.
Umalusi's assessment aims to ensure the credibility and integrity of the examinations. The council's readiness statement was released on 8 October, providing an update on the preparations. The briefing was held in Pretoria, and the advisory was published subsequently.
The 2026 examinations will be a significant milestone for the education sector in South Africa. With a large number of candidates registered, the examinations will test the preparedness of the assessment bodies and the education system as a whole. Umalusi's confirmation that preparations are on track will come as a relief to students, teachers, and parents.
The education sector in South Africa is working hard to ensure that the 2026 examinations are conducted smoothly and fairly. Umalusi's role in quality assurance is crucial in maintaining the credibility and integrity of the examinations. The council's continued monitoring of the preparations will help to identify and address any concerns that may arise.
Key points
- Umalusi confirms that 2026 exam preparations are on track, with assessments broadly ready and marker shortages being monitored.
