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

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 Johnathan Paoli

Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane has called on the province’s matriculants to disconnect from social media until the conclusion of the National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations, saying it poses a serious risk to their emotional well-being and academic focus.

Speaking at the 2025 Grade 12 NSC pledge signing ceremony at Hoërskool Vorentoe in Johannesburg, Chiloane urged learners to exercise discipline and resist online distractions.

“I urge you to disconnect from social media during this critical period. These platforms, which can be wonderful tools for connection, too often become breeding grounds for anxiety, false information, and cyberbullying during exam time. I am not asking you, I am instructing you: stay off social media during your examinations. Your emotional well-being depends on it,” he said.

The MEC’s warning came as over 192,000 candidates across Gauteng took part in pledge signing ceremonies held at 1,040 examination centres, at which the committed to honesty and integrity ahead of the final exams.

At Hoërskool Vorentoe, where 221 candidates joined 169 learners from neighbouring Westbury Secondary School, Chiloane reminded the Class of 2025 that their educational journey was bound by a unique sense of destiny and shared purpose.

“In 2013, two significant events occurred. First, the Council of Education Ministers established this pledge requirement. Secondly, you, the Class of 2025, entered Grade 1, beginning a journey that brings you here today. Somehow, it is as if destiny aligned your educational path with this commitment to integrity,” he said.

The MEC praised the cohort for demonstrating resilience and adaptability through years of disruptions and change.

“Class of 2025, you carry a special distinction. As the 18th cohort to write the NSC examinations, you have navigated unprecedented challenges. You adapted to online learning, returned to modified classrooms, and still managed to master not just traditional subjects but new offerings like technical mathematics and sign language. Your resilience has already been tested and proven,” Chiloane said.

He emphasised that the NSC examination was a defining national milestone that could unlock future opportunities.

Chiloane reiterated the department’s zero-tolerance stance on exam irregularities, warning candidates that any form of cheating or misconduct would be met with serious consequences.

“No cellphones or watches in examination rooms, not in your pocket, not in your bag, nowhere. No disruptive behaviour. No unauthorised materials or devices. No giving or receiving assistance. No writing on behalf of another candidate,” he cautioned.

He further called on learners to play an active role in safeguarding the credibility of the exams by reporting wrongdoing.

The MEC also commended teachers, parents, school governing bodies, and community and religious leaders for supporting learners through their educational journey.

He said the collaboration between schools and communities demonstrated the power of collective effort in nurturing academic excellence.

“Be the cohort remembered not only for the highest pass rate, but for the highest integrity rate. Be the generation that made cheating obsolete. I want a 100% pass rate from you,” he said.

The 2025 NSC examinations will begin on Tuesday.

INSIDE EDUCATION

By Lebone Rodah Mosima 

Anti-illegal immigrant group Operation Dudula has said it will not disrupt final matric exams, which start on Tuesday and run until the end November. 

But National Executive Committee member Thami Madondo told Inside Education that the group will continue its campaign to prevent the enrolment of undocumented foreign children at township schools, starting in January 2026. 

Earlier this month, Operation Dudula members visited a handful of schools in Soweto, saying that local children should be prioritised over foreign children. 

The schools were given “warning letters” saying the same, and “reminding” them of the status of foreign children under the BELA Act. 

“No foreign child should be accepted at [public] schools,” Madondo told Inside Education. 

He justified the school campaign under sections 32, 42 and 44 of the Immigration Act. 

Under Section 32, any person who is in the country illegally is required to leave the Republic unless the Director-General of Home Affairs has formally authorised them, in the prescribed manner, to remain while they apply for legal status. 

If an illegal foreigner fails to leave, an immigration officer may arrest, detain, or deport the person without the need for a warrant, provided it is done in accordance with the Act’s procedures and within prescribed time limits.

Section 42 of the same Act makes it an offence to knowingly assist, enable, or conceal an illegal foreigner, or to aid a foreigner in conduct that violates their visa or permit conditions, except when the assistance is necessary for humanitarian reasons.

These provisions apply only to individuals who have no legal status under the Act. They do not extend to asylum seekers or refugees whose applications are recognised under the Refugees Act, nor to documented foreign nationals who are lawfully in South Africa.

Madondo said the Immigration Act does “not exclude minors”. 

“[Illegal foreigners] should not be in the country in the first place,” he said.

Last week, the group accused basic education minister Siviwe Gwarube of breaching the Immigration Act by promoting the inclusion of illegal foreign nationals in public schools.

Operation Dudula’s claims came after a post on X (formerly Twitter) by the department, where it said it had “noted with concern information being circulated on social media about public school requirements,” and that under “the South African Schools Act (SASA), amended by the BELA Act of 2024, no child may be denied access to education because of missing documents”.

“All public schools are required to admit learners and provide education without unfair discrimination of any kind,” the department said. 

The department in the same post urged parents to verify school admission requirements through official department of education channels for South African nationals as well as foreign nationals, alerting them to stay informed and help stop the spread of fake news. 

But Madondo dismissed this, saying that Gwarube was breaching the Immigration Act, which places a legal obligation on government departments to report illegal foreigners to the Department of Home Affairs. 

Gwarube was also breaching the BELA Act, he said. 

“Even the BELA act itself specifies requirements that need to be followed in registering children of illegal immigrants in our public schools, including children who are South African born but don’t have IDs,” he said. 

He said the Immigration Act makes it “compulsory” for foreign learners to have the necessary documents, and for the law to be implemented.  

The Immigration Act, he said, was being violated by the entire South African government. 

The South African Constitution guarantees the rights of all children, irrespective of their nationality or immigration status, stating in Section 28 that the best interests of the child “are of paramount importance in every matter concerning the child”. 

The landmark 2019 Phakamisa Judgment also confirmed that undocumented learners must not be denied access to schools and education because of their status. 

But Madondo said various sections of the Constitution and the Acts were “misplaced” and “misused” or even deliberately “misinterpreted”. All of the country’s laws should be upheld, he said. 

“We are basically talking about these things daily because it’s not one section of the Constitution, and it’s not one section of the Immigration Act that has been violated,” he said.

He said that the Department of Home Affairs, in particular, has misinterpreted and misrepresented the Immigration Act and the Constitution. 

Operation Dudula has not confined its “activism” to schools. 

It has, together with anti-foreigner group March for March, previously also blocked access of undocumented foreign nationals to public health facilities in Johannesburg and Durban. 

Section 27 of the Constitution guarantees all individuals in the country access to healthcare, irrespective of their nationality or nation of birth. 

INSIDE EDUCATION

By Charmaine Ndlela

Basic education minister Siviwe Gwarube and higher education minister Buti Manamela will on 23 October officially launch the latest Teaching and Learning International Survey (TALIS) results.

TALIS is a large-scale international survey led by the Organisation for Economic Co‑operation and Development (OECD). It gathers detailed self-reported data from teachers and school leaders on their working conditions, teaching practices, and learning environments, which can be used in formulating policy.

The latest results were released earlier this month. Among the findings were that in South Africa, 63 % of lower-secondary teachers “agree” or “strongly agree” that the teaching profession is valued in society, compared with an OECD-average of 22 %. South African teachers also reported a heavy administrative burden, with the most common sources of stress including excessive marking (72 %), being held responsible for student achievement (70 %) and too much administrative work (66 %).

South Africa participated in the TALIS survey for the first time in 2018, and was the only African country to submit information on its schooling system at that time. Morocco joined in submitting data for the 2024 survey.

For the latest survey in South Africa, data was collected from 2 046 teachers at 169 schools across all provinces.

TALIS sampled about 280 000 teachers from 17 000 schools across 55 education systems worldwide.

The launch of the survey will be the culmination of the fourth G20 Education Working Group (EdWG) meeting that will take place on 20 and 21 October.

According to both departments, the EdWG will “bring together global education leaders to advance collaboration on key priorities shaping the future of learning”.

The Department of Basic Education said that discussions will centre on “quality foundation learning through strengthening Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) to improve learning outcome; mutual recognition of qualifications to promote global mobility, and alignment of skills and education professional development to empower teachers and leaders to adapt to the evolving world of work and innovation”.

UNESCO’s 2024 Global Report on Teachers found there was a critical shortage of teachers, with 44 million needed by 2030 in order for universal primary and secondary education to be advanced.

INSIDE EDUCATION

By Johnathan Paoli

Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube has called upon the Class of 2025 to approach their final examinations with honesty, integrity, and accountability.

Leading the National Senior Certificate (NSC) pledge signing ceremony at Harry Gwala High School in Makhaza, Khayelitsha, on Friday morning, Gwarube welcomed learners, educators, parents, and community members, saying the event was a final symbolic step before matric candidates begin their NSC examinations this month.

“To the matric candidates across the country, as you take the pledge today, remember that you are not just promising to be honest in your exams, you are promising to be honest in all that you do in life. May you go forward with pride, and may your efforts shine as brightly as your dreams,” she said.

Gwarube said the pledge was not a mere formality but a collective act of protecting learners’ futures, the credibility of the NSC examinations, and the integrity of South Africa’s education system.

The NSC pledge, introduced in 2011, requires all Grade 12 candidates to publicly commit to ethical conduct during their examinations.

It is intended to curb irregularities such as cheating, impersonation, and the sharing of exam content on social media.

Gwarube praised the resilience of the Class of 2025, acknowledging the challenges they faced over twelve years of schooling, particularly in a period marked by economic and social instability.

She urged learners to recognise that their achievements were not only individual but also communal.

“When you walk into that examination room, you carry the hopes of your teachers, your families, and your communities. Your success is a reflection of their effort as much as your own,” she said.

The minister linked the theme of integrity to the broader transformation goals of the basic education sector, saying that education must shape both intellect and character.

Gwarube said honesty and fairness were essential for the kind of society South Africa hopes to build, adding that the department’s focus extended beyond academic achievement to cultivating learners who embody empathy, respect, and responsibility, qualities that will define the future of the continent.

She encouraged learners to approach their exams with pride, confidence and self-belief, reminding them that their future success must be earned.

Gwarube also thanked teachers and parents for their continued dedication.

The NSC examinations will officially begin on 21 October, with more than 740,000 full-time and part-time candidates expected to sit for the national papers.

The department said that stringent measures remain in place to safeguard exam integrity, including electronic surveillance, improved question paper tracking, and closer collaboration with law enforcement agencies.

INSIDE EDUCATION