A total of 16 056 candidates have registered in the Northern Cape for this year’s National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations.
When the NSC examinations commence on Thursday 23 October, 14 210 full-time candidates and 1 846 part-time candidates from the province will sit for this important examination. It concludes on 27 November.
In a statement, the Northern Cape Department of Education said it is fully prepared to administer the 2025 NSC examinations.
In 2024, the Northern Cape achieved a pass rate of 84,2%, representing an improvement of 18,2% over the past five years and up from 66% in 2020.
“The Class of 2025 now carries the responsibility of building on this achievement, with the aim of not only improving on last year’s performance, but also exceeding the national average,” the department stated.
Targeted support measures
The department has implemented a range of targeted interventions to support all learners, with particular focus on progressed and borderline candidates to maximise their potential.
These interventions include curriculum roadshows and subject clinics; broadcast lessons and digital content (both online and offline); Saturday classes, weekend intensive sessions, and psychosocial support; and differentiated subject support for high-enrolment and problematic subjects, led by subject advisers. Furthermore, additional learning support materials were provided, and holiday school camps were organised.
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These initiatives are designed to provide holistic academic and emotional support to learners throughout their examination preparation.
Examination centres ready
A total of 148 examination centres have been registered across the Northern Cape.
The department said all necessary measures have been put in place to prevent irregularities, particularly related to dishonesty and the unauthorised use of electronic devices.
Some 148 chief invigilators have been appointed and thoroughly trained to manage and monitor exam processes across the province.
All 81 question papers have been set by the Department of Basic Education. The printing, packing and distribution of papers are coordinated with robust security protocols to ensure integrity and traceability. Every candidate is assured of receiving their examination papers on time and without compromise.
Marking process
A rigorous selection process has been followed to ensure high-quality marking. The following personnel have been appointed:
• 916 markers;
• 186 senior markers;
• 85 chief markers;
• 21 deputy chief markers;
• 85 internal moderators;
• 3 centre managers;
• 6 deputy centre managers; and
• 250 examination assistants.
Marking will take place at three designated centres, which will open on 1 December. Answer scripts and related materials will be securely delivered to these centres. The marking and capturing of marks will be completed by 12 December.
The Minister of Basic Education will officially release the national results on 8 January. The Northern Cape’s results will be released on 9 January, followed by the annual matric awards ceremony.
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The department urges the Class of 2025 to approach their examinations with honesty, discipline and integrity, in line with the oath they have taken.
“With confidence, we believe that the Class of 2025 will rise to the occasion and make the Northern Cape proud,” it concluded.
