The Department of Basic Education (DBE) has welcomed what it says is the successful start of the 2026 National Senior Certificate (NSC) final examinations, pledging to maintain integrity, credibility, and administrative efficiency throughout the exam cycle.

The nationwide exams commenced on Tuesday, with thousands of candidates across all nine provinces sitting for the Computer Applications Technology (CAT) Paper 1 Practical alongside various language papers.

According to the DBE, the “smooth rollout” is the direct result of extensive, months-long preparations shared between national and provincial education departments.

To safeguard the credibility of the qualification, strict operational protocols have been deployed across all writing centres.

The department emphasised that provincial education departments, examination officials, school management teams (SMTs) and educators remain central to keeping the system secure and resolving any emerging challenges swiftly.

"With the first day concluded without major reported disruptions, the Department remains encouraged by the initial reports from provinces," the DBE said in a statement.

The ministry confirmed it will continue to closely monitor daily administrations to ensure the Class of 2026 completes this milestone under fair, secure, and conducive conditions.

As examinations enter their second day on Wednesday, candidates will sit for Information Technology Paper 1 Practical, alongside Arabic, French, Italian, Mandarin, Modern Greek, Serbian, Spanish and Latin Second Additional Language Paper 1, as well as Portuguese Home Language, First Additional Language and Second Additional Language Paper 1. 

Minister of Basic Education Siviwe Gwarube, extended her warmest wishes to the matriculants.

"The commencement of the 2026 National Senior Certificate examinations is an important moment for our learners and the basic education sector," Gwarube stated.

"Every examination represents an opportunity for learners to demonstrate the knowledge and skills they have acquired over the years. We encourage the Class of 2026 to approach each paper with confidence, remain focused and give their very best."

The Minister also reminded the public that student success relies heavily on external stability, calling on parents, guardians, and local communities to offer unwavering emotional and practical support.

A peaceful, encouraging environment at home is vital to enabling candidates to perform to the absolute best of their abilities, it said.