Central SA
Matric results: Anticipation builds for class of 2025─── REFILWE BEKANE 14:00 Tue, 06 Jan 2026
With the festive season now behind them, thousands of matriculants across South Africa are entering the final stretch of their high school journey.
The department of basic education has confirmed that the National Senior Certificate (NSC) results for the class of 2025 will be officially announced by the minister of basic education on Monday (12/1). Individual results will be available at schools and online from 06:00 the following morning.
As the countdown continues, learners across the country are grappling with a complex mix of emotions. Among them is Ntsiki Tamane (18) from Bloemfontein, a recent matriculant at Hodisa Technical School, who shared his thoughts on this transitional period.
For Tamane, the current moment feels like a bridge between two worlds. He describes his emotions as a blend of pride and uncertainty.
While excited about the future, the anticipation surrounding the results brings a sense of vulnerability. Despite the growing tension, he reflects on his school years as a time of immense personal growth, especially in learning how to manage the pressure of final exams.
“I’m excited, yet a bit uncertain, about the future. It’s like closing a chapter in my life and starting a new one.
Words of encouragement
“At the same time, I’m proud of myself for working hard and tackling new challenges,” said Tamane.
As the wait for results continues, community leaders and former learners are offering words of encouragement and advice on how to cope with the pressure and potential outcomes.
Joseph Baartman, a former deputy head boy of Heatherdale Secondary School and currently an export clerk at a trailer manufacturing company in Bloemfontein, extended his well-wishes to the class of 2025.
The former deputy headboy of Heatherdale Secondary School, Joseph Baartman. Photo supplied
“I think the best thing to do is to constantly check up on one another. As the saying goes, I am because you are.
“Many people experience isolation during times like these, so it’s important to support a friend,” said Baartman.
He also encouraged learners to manage their stress levels, adding that overthinking is a common struggle in the lead-up to results day. His advice: trust in the hard work already done, and if the results fall short of expectations, see the setback as a stepping stone rather than the end of the road.
• Have a news tip to share? Call or WhatsApp the OFM News Line on 066 487 1427.
