The candidates have registered for the examinations, comprising 48,440 full-time learners and 3,760 part-time candidates. This represents an increase of 3,341 candidates compared with the 2025 enrolment. The examinations will commence on Tuesday (13/10) with the practical component of computer applications technology (CAT) Paper 1.

North West achieved an overall matric pass rate of 88.49% for the class of 2025 and placed fourth nationally. This was an improvement of 0.99 percentage points from its 2024 pass rate of 87.5%. The North West department of education said it is ready to administer the Grade 12 examinations, with examination centres prepared, personnel deployed and other essential arrangements coordinated to ensure a smooth and credible process.

Remain focused

Department spokesperson Dr Elias Malindi wished all candidates well as they prepare for their final examinations, encouraging them to remain focused, disciplined and committed throughout the examination period.

Acting MEC for education Kenetswe Mosenogi also wished the learners success, highlighting the support and interventions provided by the department throughout the year.

“On behalf of the entire department, I am wishing good luck to the learners who will be writing their final examinations, especially the Grade 12 learners. As the department, we have supported learners throughout the year with various interventions like autumn, winter, spring and incubation camps and many other extra classes.”

Mosenogi said learners would continue to receive support through incubation camps hosted by schools across the province. “Many schools will be hosting Incubation camps across the province, and we request learners to obey their teachers. We do not want to get reports wherein learners violate their code of conduct during the camps.” 

“I am confident that this 2026 cohort will take us to a higher position away from our usual position four. Once more, our province is ready for the final examinations,” she said.

The department has called on parents, teachers, communities and all education stakeholders to support candidates during the examination period by creating an environment conducive to studying and academic success.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi dg

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