By Lebone Rodah Mosima

The National Research Foundation (NRF) of South Africa has announced funding for 10 transdisciplinary research projects, each led by researchers based at African institutions.

The NRF is an independent statutory body created to advance research and innovation in South Africa.

In a statement released this week, it said that in collaboration with the Belmont Forum, it invited climate change researchers across Africa to apply for CRA (Collaboration Research Funding) over a year ago.

“The Belmont Forum is a group of funding agencies from around the world that support transdisciplinary, globally representative research groups and coproduction/participatory methods to address various global environmental change topics,” the NRF said.

It said the initiative sought to address “knowledge gaps and priorities in addressing climate change vulnerability across the continent,” identified during scoping sessions with researchers.

The work, it added, was carried out in support of the African Union’s climate, environment, and sustainability goals and priority areas for Agenda 2063.

The CRA focused on three main themes: the water-energy-food-health nexus, pollution, and disaster preparedness, responsiveness, and recovery. The “green and blue economy” was identified as a cross-cutting issue, while education and awareness were encouraged as complementary activities.

According to the NRF, the funding call generated 172 pre-proposals, while 59 full proposals were submitted by researchers from across the world.

The 10 projects ultimately selected were “led by researchers based at African institutions … following a comprehensive review”.

The selected projects will each be funded for three years, and “represent diverse research efforts that address the complex challenges at the interface of climate, environment, and health in Africa,” the statement said.

“This is one of the most significant funding administration initiatives the NRF has undertaken in recent years,” said Dr Nare Prudence Makhura, Executive Director: International Grants and Partnerships.

“It reflects our strong commitment to supporting African-led, solutions-driven research that tackles the pressing challenges of climate change on the continent. Equally, it highlights the sophistication of our funding administration systems to effectively manage complex, multi-partner international collaborations.”

The NRF said €4.29 million (R86.7 million) had been committed over three years by 14 funders. The NRF will contribute €1 million to support the participation of South African researchers in the initiative”.

Across the 10 projects, there are a total of 126 team members. Ten are African consortium leads, 29 are co-principal investigators and 87 are project partners.

The participants include 87 natural scientists, 23 social scientists, and 16 societal partners.

“In terms of continental representation, 97 of the team members are from Africa, representing 16 countries: Botswana, Côte d’Ivoire, DRC, Egypt, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Mozambique, Namibia, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, South Africa, Tanzania, Tunisia, Uganda; five are from Asia, represented by Turkey; 17 are from Europe represented by France, Germany, Spain and Switzerland; six are from North America, represented by the United States of America; and one is from South America, represented by Brazil,” said the statement.

INSIDE EDUCATION

By Johnathan Paoli

The 2025 Inanda Hoops Classic Challenge (IHCC) has come to an exhilarating end after four days of high-octane basketball that showcased the very best of South Africa’s young talent.

The tournament, hosted at St David’s Marist Inanda, concluded with a gripping finale on Sunday as King Edward VII School (KES) edged out St Benedict’s College 29–27 to claim their first-ever IHCC championship title.

KES team captain Siya Ndlovu, who was later named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player, said the victory was the result of months of dedication and belief.

“It’s an incredible win, we’ve worked tirelessly for this. Every game demanded focus and heart, and I’m proud that we delivered when it mattered most,” Ndlovu said.

For the Red Hoops of KES, it was a defining moment, one that crowned an unbeaten campaign built on resilience, tactical precision, and unrelenting teamwork.

Sixteen of the country’s top basketball schools competed across four pools, and early results made it clear that no team was safe.

Defending champions St Stithians College suffered an early and surprising exit after defeats to St Benedict’s and Michaelhouse, signalling a shift in the competitive landscape.

Hosts St David’s Marist Inanda started strong with victories over Redhill and Sacred Heart but fell short in their quarterfinal clash against Michael Mount Waldorf School.

Throughout the pool stages, several teams made bold statements.

King’s School Linbro Park remained unbeaten, while Hilton College impressed with decisive wins over St Peter’s College and Inanda Invitational.

Pretoria Boys’ High bounced back from a difficult start to dominate their later games, and Parktown Boys’ High displayed formidable composure in edging out St David’s by a narrow three-point margin.

The level of play was consistently fierce, setting the stage for a weekend of gripping knockout basketball.

Saturday’s quarterfinals provided both drama and heartbreak.

KES cruised past Hilton College in a performance that underlined their growing confidence, while St Benedict’s outplayed King’s Linbro in a fast-paced, physical encounter.

Michael Mount Waldorf continued their solid run by eliminating St David’s, and St John’s College overcame Parktown Boys’ in another hard-fought contest.

KES secured their spot in the final with a commanding win over St John’s, driven by sharp shooting and disciplined defence.

On the adjacent court, St Benedict’s edged out Michael Mount 31–29 in one of the tournament’s most intense games, setting up a highly anticipated Johannesburg showdown for the title.

The championship match was a spectacle of passion and precision.

Both KES and St Benedict’s traded baskets in a contest that swung back and forth until the final seconds.

With the score tied at 27–27, KES guard Bradley Moyo produced the decisive moment, stealing possession and finishing on the fast break to clinch a 29–27 victory.

Moyo’s performance, along with that of teammate Tim Fanny, earned both players recognition among the tournament’s All-Stars, while Ndlovu’s leadership throughout the four days earned him the MVP award.

By the end of the weekend, KES stood proudly as U19 champions, with St Benedict’s taking second place and Michael Mount Waldorf finishing third.

In the U15 category, St Benedict’s also enjoyed success, finishing ahead of St Stithians College and St John’s College.

INSIDE EDUCATION

By Akani Nkuna

Limpopo Premier Phophi Ramathuba has called on the province’s matriculants to aim for a top-five national ranking in this year’s National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations, urging learners to surpass last year’s performance through dedication and community support.

Speaking during the annual provincial virtual prayer session on Sunday, hosted by the Limpopo provincial government, Ramathuba said the Class of 2025 had the talent and support needed to excel.

“We know we can do better, and we will do better. This year, 2025, our province has registered a total of 127 000 learners, both full-time and part-time, who will be sitting for exams across 1 648 examination centres. Our target is very clear: Limpopo must break into the Top 5 performing provinces in South Africa and we remain committed to supporting every learner to succeed,” she said.

The prayer session united local and provincial officials, traditional and faith-based leaders, parents, and Grade 12 learners, offering encouragement ahead of the final exams, which begin on Tuesday, 21 October.

In the 2024 NSC examinations, Limpopo recorded an 85.1% pass rate (up from 79.5% in 2023), ranking sixth nationally. Ramathuba described the result as progress, crediting strategies introduced by the provincial education department, but she said the province was “not yet satisfied” and must keep striving for better outcomes.

The premier praised the province’s investment in e-learning tools, weekend camps, and revision programmes, calling them vital steps in addressing educational inequalities and improving performance in under-resourced communities.

But she cautioned that social ills, exam stress, and community disruptions continue to hinder learner success. She appealed for collective action to ensure a supportive environment during the examination period.

“To parents, we ask you to walk this journey with them. To law enforcement, we request strict action against any distractions that may undermine exam preparation. To teachers, we thank you. To communities, we urge unity and support,” she said.

INSIDE EDUCATION  

By Palesa Nguqu and Simon Nare

South Africa is gearing up for one of its largest exam operations as more than 900,000 candidates prepare to sit the 2025 National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations on Tuesday.

Minister of Basic Education Siviwe Gwarube has described the national exam operation as one of “the largest and most complex public assessment outside of national elections.”

Speaking at a ministerial media briefing in Pretoria, Gwarube said the Department of Basic Education (DBE) was confident in its readiness.

The matric exams are set to start on Tuesday morning and are expected to end on November 27 2025. 

“The systems are securely in place, the security measures are sound, the educators are prepared, and our learners are ready,” she told dozens of reporters.

According to Gwarube, 903,561 candidates will write the exams — 766,543 full-time learners and 137,018 part-time candidates — marking the highest number since the democratic exam system was established in 1996.

“This year, we have over 766 000 candidates who have registered as full-time candidates. This is the highest number since the public exams started in 1996. We also have just over 137 000 part-time candidates. In total, we have over 900 000 candidates who will sit for the 2025 National Senior Certificate Matric Exams,” said Gwarube.

“We wish the class of 2025 well for the exams.”

To ensure inclusivity, the department has finalized examination versions modified for Braille, large print, and South African Sign Language.

A total of 6,955 examination centers across the country — including 6,396 public schools and 579 independent schools — have been approved to host the exams.

To strengthen oversight, 57 national monitors and thousands of provincial officials have been deployed to ensure compliance and security.

Gwarube stressed that the integrity of the exams remains non-negotiable, with every stage — from paper setting to marking — undergoing multiple layers of verification.

“Let us all rally behind our matriculants, lighting their path with encouragement, discipline, and love, so that when results are released on January 12, 2026, they reflect not only academic achievement but the enduring strength, unity, and possibility of our education system,” the Minister said.

According to the department, over 130,000 learners participated in intensive Autumn, Winter, and Spring revision camps held at 665 centers, focusing on critical gateway subjects such as Mathematics, Physical Sciences, and Geography, with attendance levels exceeding 80%. Learners also received Mind the Gap guides, literature study packs, self-study kits, and digital resources to aid preparation.

Marking preparations are already in progress, with 185 marking centers and more than 40,000 trained officials, including markers, invigilators, and moderators.

Marking is scheduled to begin on December 2, 2025, following staggered staff arrivals from November 27 to December 1.

Meanwhile, Umalusi — the Council for Quality Assurance in General and Further Education and Training — has confirmed its readiness to oversee the process, saying measures are in place to protect the integrity and security of the examinations, including training personnel and monitoring high-risk centers nationwide.

In a one-on-one interview with Inside Education, Gwarube said the department had employed robust measures to ensure the final examinations proceed smoothly and securely.

“Printing, packaging, and distribution security protocols have been tested and tightened, markers are being trained, and the examination centres have been verified. Our focus is to guarantee that every learner is afforded a fair, credible, and smooth examination process,” said Gwarube.

She added that the department was fully prepared to administer the exams and would continue working closely with provinces, districts, and schools to maintain stability and oversight throughout the examination period.

When asked about performance expectations, Gwarube said the department was not anticipating a decline in the pass rate but was instead optimistic about an improved overall outcome.

“This confidence is based on the intensive interventions made throughout their schooling years, and from extra tuition in matric, including winter and autumn camps and weekend classes to enhance teacher support and curriculum recovery initiatives. Our ambition is to improve the quality of education so that more young people can access universities, TVET colleges, and the world of work,” she said.

The department, she noted, had widely circulated exam preparation materials to ensure that learners remain on track and aligned with the examination programme.

Addressing concerns over exam paper leaks, Gwarube revealed that a forensic investigation firm had been appointed to trace the source of last year’s leaks and prevent similar incidents this year.

“Preliminary information shows that the leak did not originate from the Department of Education, and our systems remain secure. We are comfortable that there will be no leaks from the department,” she said.

Gwarube acknowledged that 2025 had come with its share of challenges but assured the nation that the department had identified and mitigated recurring risks.

“Firstly, the issue of school safety, particularly criminal activity around schools and intimidation in some hot spot communities, continues to concern us. We are addressing this through our ongoing collaboration with the South African Police Service,” she said.

The minister also highlighted the psychosocial well-being of learners as a key focus area, saying that expanded learner support programmes and counselling services were being prioritised.

“The psychosocial well-being of learners is something we are prioritising; we have expanded learner support programmes and counselling to ensure that matriculants are emotionally and mentally ready to sit for the exams,” Gwarube said.

INSIDE EDUCATION

By Thebe Mabanga

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is geared up for the 2026 academic year, with digitisation and the introduction of biometrics at the heart of the application process. 

The application cycle for a new academic year is the first under the leadership of a new board, led by Dr Karen Stander, and an executive, led by acting CEO Waseem Carrim.

Applications are set to close on November 15.   

“The application process is robust, user-friendly and supported by strong front-end and back-end functionality,” says Carrim.

“The larger challenge is the sustainability of NSFAS and its ability to provide ongoing medium-term funding to all qualifying, financially and academically eligible beneficiaries.” 

In mid-October, at the midway stage of the application process, over 420,000 applications had been received for the 2026 academic year, with thousands more expected before the closing date.

Carrim says NSFAS has introduced innovations such as digital signatures and storage of all forms and agreements.

They have also introduced biometrics for processes such as change of password and bank details, as well as physical identification of applicants and linking them to their institution.

This is particularly important for curbing fraud in instances where an applicant has applied through multiple institutions.  

Support is available by telephone, email, social media and walk-in applications, and a total of 80 consultants are available to assist with incoming calls. 

Applicants can apply at walk-ins at NSFAS offices, the National Youth Development Agency, TVET college campuses and youth desks at municipalities.

The Minister of Higher Education and Training, Buti Manamela, points out that learners and their families must be confident that if they apply for NSFAS and they qualify, they will get the funding, or if they are allocated accommodation, it will be decent. Rebuilding trust will be key. 

“The halfway mark on the NSFAS application window is upon us, and all prospective students who dream of studying at a university or TVET college next year must apply now. Don’t wait until the last minute; this is your chance to secure your future,” he said.

The Department of Higher Education and Training, together with NSFAS, has noted strong participation from matriculants, gap-year students, and returning learners. The department notes that many eligible applicants have yet to apply, especially from rural and township areas.

Manamela says there will be no extension or reopening of the applications and urged applicants who do not have their matric results to use their Grade 11 results and update these later. The minister called on teachers, university students, and community leaders to help learners apply. 

NSFAS funds studies to all public universities, universities of technology, and TVET colleges, and Manamela urged students and parents to explore all options, including TVET colleges, which he says offer a pathway to employment with the range of technical and vocational skills they offer, as well as artisan, technical, and entrepreneurial careers. 

“I would like to urge parents to look at their local TVET colleges. See where their children will study and inspect facilities such as workshops for engineering studies. If you want to become a fitter, a welder, a solar technician, or a cybersecurity analyst, this is your moment. Apply to NSFAS today and take the first step toward your qualification.”

He added that NSFAS teams, in collaboration with the Department of Higher Education and Training and SETAs, are visiting schools, community halls, and youth centres to provide on-the-spot assistance with applications and queries.

The department also announced that during this application window, it will be setting up an NSFAS War Room that will operate into the new academic year “until the last query is sorted and the last appeal is addressed,” according to Manamela.  

Beyond the application process, NSFAS is also grappling with challenges, including student accommodation as well as payment of allowances. 

Carrim says the structural challenges with accommodation relate to the availability of suitable accommodation, especially in rural areas. The construction of student accommodation in suitable areas is part of the government’s infrastructure drive.  

He says institutions must also look into how accommodation is allocated and not accept more learners than they can accommodate. NSFAS is reviewing which functions can be handed over to institutions and which can be handled by NSFAS in relation to accommodation and allowance payments. 

NSFAS is reviewing all contracts, including those with intermediaries for their services. 

INSIDE EDUCATION

By Lebone Rodah Mosima

Government has extended its best wishes to the Class of 2025 matriculants as they begin their final examinations, urging them to write with confidence, pride, and determination to succeed.

“This period marks the culmination of 13 years of learning, commitment, and perseverance. Learners are encouraged to approach the examinations with focus, confidence, and determination. Your hard work represents not only personal achievement but also a vital contribution to the development and progress of our country,” government said in a statement.

“Government further appeals to parents and guardians to provide the necessary support and a conducive environment for learners during this crucial time. A calm, encouraging atmosphere at home helps to reduce anxiety and allows learners to perform to the best of their ability. Families are encouraged to ensure that learners maintain healthy routines, including adequate rest, nutritious meals, light exercise, and regular study breaks to sustain concentration and overall well-being.”

President Cyril Ramaphosa also wished learners good luck, acknowledging that matric exams can be “quite challenging” but expressing faith in their ability to rise to the occasion.

“Many who have written these exams before you have always done well, and I know you will not disappoint,” said Ramaphosa.

The African National Congress Youth League (ANCYL), on the other hand, described the exams as the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and perseverance.

“The ANCYL calls on all learners to approach their examination with focus, discipline, and confidence. These exams are not only the conclusion of their schooling journey, but the beginning of a new chapter of opportunity, growth, and contribution to the development of our nation,” the league said in a statement.

The Youth League also reminded learners to apply for the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) for the 2026 academic year before applications close on 15 November 2025, encouraging them to seize the opportunity to secure funding for their tertiary studies.

The South African Democratic Teachers’ Union (SADTU) noted that the National Senior Certificate (NSC) exams play a crucial role in benchmarking the quality of South Africa’s education system.

“The journey of the Class of 2025 has not been easy. Their learning was disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and 2021, during their Grade 7 and 8 years,” SADTU said.

“We commend both learners and teachers for their resilience, hard work, and determination in overcoming these challenges and making it to this crucial stage.”

SADTU called for the examination period to proceed without disruptions and urged all education stakeholders — parents, communities, transport providers, and government — to support learners.

The union also appealed to communities to protect schools from violence and vandalism and to avoid blocking roads to schools during protests.

“To the learners, we say: remain disciplined and avoid any conduct that could jeopardise your chances of obtaining that all-important National Senior Certificate,” SADTU added.

Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) leader Velenkosini Hlabisa congratulated learners for reaching this milestone.

“It has been a long journey from Grade R to Grade 12. We congratulate them in advance, as many of their peers who started this journey did not make it this far. I thank them for their perseverance and encourage them not to give up as they are about to cross this bridge,” he said.

Hlabisa also commended educators who “sacrificed weekends and holidays” to prepare learners for success despite difficult circumstances.

The government appealed to parents and guardians to provide a calm and supportive atmosphere at home.

“Families are encouraged to ensure that learners maintain healthy routines, including adequate rest, nutritious meals, light exercise, and regular study breaks to sustain concentration and overall well-being,” it said in a statement.

Department of Correctional Services (DCS) National Commissioner Makgothi Thobakgale praised educators and support staff for preparing inmates for their exams.

“Education not only empowers offenders with knowledge, but also paves the way for a second chance in life. At DCS, we remain steadfast in our belief that learning transforms lives and restores dignity,” said Thobakgale.

He said DCS schools have consistently achieved strong academic results, with 13 schools achieving a 100% pass rate in 2024, up from nine in 2023.

“To all our matriculants, both inside and outside correctional centres, you carry the hopes of your families and your communities. We believe in your potential and eagerly await celebrating your success,” he added.

ActionSA Gauteng congratulated learners for their courage and resilience.

“You have overcome challenges — from disruptions in our education system to personal hardships — and you have shown what it means to be resilient,” the party said.

ActionSA also highlighted Gauteng’s high youth unemployment rate of around 47%, urging learners to see their exams as a gateway to opportunity.

“To every matric learner — remember that this is not just the end of one chapter, but the beginning of another. Whether your path takes you to university, college, a trade, or entrepreneurship, know that you can succeed. Your dreams are valid, your voice matters, and your future is worth fighting for,” the party said.

Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi noted that the province has consistently ranked among the top three performing provinces in the NSC results, with an 88.4% pass rate in 2024, behind the Free State (91%) and KwaZulu-Natal (89.5%).

“On behalf of the Gauteng Provincial Government, I wish the Class of 2025 all the best in their upcoming final examinations. May your hard work and dedication throughout the year bear fruit as you prepare for these exams, which mark the culmination of your basic education,” said Lesufi.

The Afrika Mayibuye Women’s Movement emphasised education’s transformative power and called for collective moral support.

“Education remains one of the most powerful tools for liberation and social transformation,” it said.

The movement encouraged parents and women to dedicate 30 minutes of prayer for matriculants and to visit schools wearing movement regalia, holding placards with messages of encouragement.

“Let us give our children the moral and spiritual strength they need to overcome this final hurdle with courage and confidence,” the movement said.

Build One South Africa (BOSA) also encouraged matriculants to strive for excellence but criticised the limited access to Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) subjects in public schools.

“This effectively bars thousands of learners from pursuing tertiary education in high-demand fields and limits the country’s ability to build a skilled workforce,” BOSA said.

The party said it would present proposals to the National Education and Training Council (NTEC) to expand access to STEM subjects.

Umalusi CEO Mafu Rakometsi extended his best wishes to learners writing both matric and Adult Basic Education and Training (ABET) exams.

“May you remain focused and dedicated as you approach your final exam. Adult Education not only equips you with knowledge and skills but also opens pathways for further education and employment,” he said.

He confirmed that Umalusi officials have been deployed to monitor the exams and ensure compliance with regulations.

Minister of Basic Education Siviwe Gwarube recently visited Harry Gwala High School in Khayelitsha, Cape Town, where she joined learners in signing the National Senior Certificate Pledge.

“You have overcome difficulties and uncertainties, and now you stand on the threshold of one of the most defining moments of your young lives. As you prepare to write your National Senior Certificate examinations, you will take a pledge today that commits you to approach this milestone with honour and integrity,” she told learners.

Gwarube urged them to reject cheating and dishonesty, saying such actions “harm the credibility of the entire system.”

“May you go forward with pride, and may your efforts shine as brightly as your dreams,” she said.

“I wish all matriculants the best for their final examinations. Write with confidence, honesty, and the belief that you are shaping a better South Africa and a better Africa.”

INSIDE EDUCATION

By Charmaine Ndlela

As more than 900,000 full- and part-time candidates prepare to sit for the start of the 2025 final exams on Tuesday, educators and psychologists are urging learners to stay calm, plan ahead, and protect their mental health.

Experts say the key to coping with exam stress lies in balance, preparation, and self-care – including regular breaks, healthy sleep, and realistic study schedules. Avoiding last-minute cramming, focusing on what you know, and setting achievable daily goals can make a major difference in performance.

To help learners manage anxiety, the South African College of Applied Psychology (SACAP) in August launched its 42-minute Matric Study Hacks Webinar, an interactive session offering science-backed techniques and practical tools to improve focus and reduce panic. The initiative preceded the global commemoration of World Mental Health Day on 10 October under the theme Together for Mental Health.

SACAP said that coping with exam stress is really about balance, preparation, and self-care.

Youth mentor Kagiso Kgomane, founder of For The Youth By The Youth, encouraged the Class of 2025 to see exams as part of a larger journey.

“As you enter this final stretch of your high school journey, I want to remind you that this year is not just about exams – it’s about perseverance, self-belief, and laying the foundation for the future you want.

“We believe in the power of young people to change the world. Your voice, your choices, and your dreams matter. No matter where you come from, your future is still yours to shape.”

He said grade 12 pupils should ask for help when they need it and support each other. “Whether you pass with distinctions or face challenges along the way, what matters is that you keep moving forward. We believe in you, now it’s time for you to believe in yourself.”

High-school teacher Asemahle Cwayela advised learners to focus on what they understand rather than cramming or stressing about what they can’t remember.

She said that while some learners might struggle with coping mechanisms, it was important to remain calm and focused. She encouraged learners to approach exams with a goal in mind, to use the material provided by teachers, and to trust their preparation.

Cwayela also cautioned against sharing last-minute notes with classmates, saying this often creates panic and self-doubt instead of confidence.

INSIDE EDUCATION

By Johnathan Paoli

The South African Teachers’ Union (SAOU) has called for a sustained, year-long celebration and recognition of teachers, warning that the emotional strain, professional isolation, and looming teacher shortages threaten the stability of the country’s education system.

SAOU executive officer, Paul Sauer, said this decision reflects the urgent need for deeper, more consistent appreciation for educators, particularly at a time when many are leaving the profession due to exhaustion and lack of support.

“In the current circumstances, where teachers are experiencing emotional exhaustion and where the wellness of teachers can be measured by the number of good teachers leaving the education system, the time has come to provide more focused acknowledgement to our teachers,” Sauer said.

The SAOU’s call for greater recognition comes against the backdrop of a worldwide crisis in teacher supply.

According to data from UNESCO and Education International, there is currently a global shortage of 44 million teachers capable of meeting basic education needs.

Sub-Saharan Africa, in particular, has been hit hard by this shortfall, with the number of qualified teachers declining sharply over the past two decades.

UNESCO’s 2025 Fact Sheet reveals that the proportion of qualified primary school teachers in the region has dropped from 85% to 69%, while qualified secondary school teachers have decreased from 79% to 59%.

This decline coincides with a rising population of school-age children and the introduction of early childhood development (ECD) programmes, which have increased the demand for teachers even further.

Since 2000, Africa’s expansion of ECD initiatives has created a global need for an additional six million preschool teachers, UNESCO reports.

The union warned that unless South Africa takes proactive steps to retain its teaching workforce, the country could face severe teacher shortages within the next 15 years.

Sauer expressed concern about the Basic Education department’s proposed Early Retirement Programme, which would allow teachers aged 55 to 59 to exit the system voluntarily.

While intended to rejuvenate the teaching workforce, Sauer said the policy could “escalate the problem” by accelerating the loss of experienced educators at a time when replacements are already scarce.

In addition to early retirements, South Africa continues to lose qualified teachers through emigration and career changes.

Many educators seek opportunities abroad or in other sectors due to better pay, improved working conditions, or professional development prospects.

Sauer highlighted the emotional and social dimensions of teaching, noting that educators often struggle with professional isolation and a lack of institutional support.

Strong relationships between teachers, parents, learners, and school management teams are essential to fostering a healthy school environment, the union said.

Without this sense of connection and recognition, teacher morale, and by extension, learner outcomes, inevitably decline.

As nearly one million learners across the country begin their National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations, the union reminded South Africans that behind every matriculant stands a team of teachers who have guided them from their first day in Grade R.

“Teaching is a work of heart, and teachers are at the heart of education,” Sauer said.

The union appealed to communities to show tangible support for educators, not only during October but throughout the year, including public recognition, encouragement and collaboration between schools and communities to improve teachers’ working conditions.

INSIDE EDUCATION

By Charmaine Ndlela

All nine provincial education departments across South Africa have confirmed their state of readiness to ensure the smooth and incident-free administration of the 2025 National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations.

KwaZulu-Natal Education MEC, Sipho Hlomuka, said the province was “fully prepared” for the start of the NSC examinations, reaffirming the department’s commitment to academic excellence.

“Our provincial vision remains clear: every learner who sits for the final examination must pass. We know that external factors sometimes make a 100% pass rate difficult, but we are determined not to fall below 95%,” said Hlomuka.

In the Western Cape, the Department of Education has confirmed full readiness, with 77,442 candidates set to write the final exams — 67,606 full-time and 9,836 part-time or repeat candidates.

The province noted that two subjects have only one registered candidate each: Lesotho First Additional Language and Setswana Home Language.

The Northern Cape Department of Education also confirmed that all systems are in place for the successful and credible delivery of the 2025 NSC exams.

“The registration of examination centres underwent a comprehensive audit by provincial and district officials using a national monitoring tool. A total of 148 centres have been registered across the province,” the department said.

A total of 16,056 candidates have been registered — 14,210 full-time and 1,846 part-time.

Additionally, 148 chief invigilators have been appointed and trained to manage and monitor exam processes across the province.

“We urge 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,” the department added.

In the Free State, all plans and logistics for the October/November NSC examinations have been finalised. A total of 48,141 candidates will be writing — 39,352 full-time and 8,789 part-time.

The department reported 100% operational readiness:

– Concessions: All 3,726 applications processed.

– Exam Centres: All 409 centres registered or audited; 19 independent centres accredited by Umalusi.

– Personnel & Venues: All monitors, chief invigilators, and invigilators appointed and trained. Venues meet standards for lighting, spacing, and furniture, with resident monitors assigned to high-risk centres.

– Learner Communication: Admission letters issued to all learners.

The 409 centres are distributed as follows:

– Thabo Mofutsanyana: 113 centres (13,770 candidates)

– Motheo and Mangaung (MMED): 125 centres (14,660 candidates)

– Lejweleputswa: 76 centres (10,110 candidates)

– Fezile Dabi: 65 centres (7,392 candidates)

– Xhariep: 30 centres (2,209 candidates)

The department wished the Class of 2025 “a good run and excellent results.”

In Limpopo, Premier Phophi Ramathuba urged matriculants to aim for a top-five national ranking, calling on learners to surpass last year’s performance through dedication and community support.

The province has registered 127,000 learners (full-time and part-time) across 1,648 examination centres.

Gauteng has confirmed full readiness, with 192,745 candidates registered and 1,040 centres audited and deemed compliant.

Invigilators have been trained, and security measures strengthened.

The province has also rolled out “high-flyer” and “just-in-time” revision programmes to support learners.

In the North West, the Department of Education said preparations are complete, following an audit by Umalusi.

The department hosted a Provincial Prayer and Pledge Signing Ceremony on 17 October 2025, where Grade 12 learners committed to upholding examination regulations and avoiding irregularities.

The Mpumalanga Department of Education has also confirmed readiness, with 583 examination centres successfully audited. MEC Lindi Masina said candidate registration was finalised through the SA-SAMS system, with data uploaded by 30 June.

“A total of 69,980 candidates have registered to write the 2025 NSC examinations — an increase of 2,749 from last year,” said Masina.

The 2025 NSC examinations will officially begin on Tuesday, 21 October, with learners writing Computer Applications Technology, and conclude on 27 November 2025.

The Minister of Basic Education will announce the national and provincial pass rates on Monday, 12 January 2026, and individual results will be released the following day.

INSIDE EDUCATION