KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Education Sipho Hlomuka is expected to give a comprehensive update on the province’s state of readiness for the 2026 National Senior Certificate examinations, as the countdown to the year-end matric exams intensifies.
Hlomuka is expected to address critical issues, including the availability of question papers, the security of examination venues, the readiness of invigilators and markers, and measures to prevent cheating and irregularities. The province has faced challenges in previous years, including load-shedding disruptions and infrastructure concerns in rural areas.
The MEC is also likely to provide details on learner support, including extra classes, study guides, and psycho-social services. The department has invested heavily in matric intervention programmes aimed at improving pass rates.
Parents, teachers, and learners will be listening closely for reassurance that the province is ready to deliver a credible and fair examination. Any indication of logistical problems could heighten anxiety ahead of the exams, which begin in late October.
The update will also address learner safety, particularly in areas affected by crime. The department is working with law enforcement to ensure learners can write without fear.
For the Class of 2026, the coming weeks will test both academic knowledge and resilience.
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