The marking of the National Senior Certificate (NSC) exam papers has been successfully completed, with Basic Education director-general Mathanzima Mweli commending the dedication of educators and the robust systems in place to ensure accuracy and integrity. This year’s marking process involved 50,741 markers working at 183 centres across the country under strict and controlled conditions.
Mweli personally visited all the marking centres over a 13-day period to oversee the operations and acknowledge the hard work of the markers. He emphasized that these visits were aimed at expressing appreciation on behalf of the department’s leadership. Markers welcomed the visits, with many providing positive feedback about the support they received during this crucial phase.
The department ensured that arrangements for markers, such as accommodation, venues, and meals, met high standards. Despite challenges like load-shedding and extreme temperatures, contingency plans were implemented to ensure the process continued smoothly.
Marking was conducted in two staggered sessions from 16 November to 14 December, with multiple layers of quality control in place. Senior markers, chief markers, and internal moderators carefully reviewed the scripts, while external checks by the Department of Basic Education and Umalusi added another layer of oversight. This ensured the accurate and secure processing of over 10.3 million exam scripts, all captured on the national examination system.
While the process was successful overall, Mweli expressed condolences for the loss of four markers during this period. These incidents, which included illness, injuries, and a tragic hijacking, saddened the entire education community. Mweli extended heartfelt sympathies to the families affected.
The director-general also reassured the public about the strict security measures at marking centres, ensuring the safekeeping of scripts and maintaining the integrity of the process.
With the marking phase complete, the next steps include processing and standardizing results, overseen by Umalusi. Mweli expressed confidence in the NSC process, noting that it plays a critical role in maintaining the credibility of South Africa’s education system.
Candidates can expect to receive their matric results on 14 January. The department remains committed to ensuring that this milestone is handled with the same precision and care demonstrated during the marking process.
