Politicians extended best wishes to all matriculants ahead of their final National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations, with government encouraging learners to approach the examinations with focus, confidence and determination.

The final National Senior Certificate examinations will commence on Tuesday and continue through to November 27.

Deputy government spokesperson William Baloyi said this period marked the culmination of 13 years of learning, commitment and perseverance.

He said the learners’ hard work represented a vital contribution to the development and progress of the country.

Government is appealing to parents and guardians to provide the necessary support and a conducive environment for learners during this period.

“A calm, encouraging atmosphere at home helps to reduce anxiety and allows learners to perform to the best of their ability. Families are encouraged to ensure that learners maintain healthy routines, including adequate rest, nutritious meals, light exercise, and regular study breaks to sustain concentration and overall well-being,” Baloyi said.

The Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) expressed confidence in the “resilience, strength, and determination” of the matriculants, positive that despite the 2025 challenges, learners would achieve “outstanding success”.

The party acknowledged that 2025 presented significant challenges.

“Learners have had to overcome obstacles such as criminal activity and gangsterism in some communities, as well as disruptions in KwaZulu-Natal schools due to educators’ union protests over subsidy payments. These factors have added to the pressure on many learners during an already demanding time,” said IFP national spokesperson Mkhuleko Hlengwa.

He noted recent matric results, which he said showed a sustained upward trend in learner performance, reflecting steady progress within South Africa’s education sector.

“As the Class of 2025 enters the examination period, we reflect with pride on the Class of 2024, who achieved a record-breaking pass rate of 87.3% — the highest in the country’s history. We are confident that this year’s cohort will continue that legacy of excellence,” he said.

IFP president Velenkosini Hlabisa congratulated the class of 2025 in advance, thanking them for their perseverance and encouraged them not to give up.

Hlabisa also noted the role of parents during this time, saying learners need maximum emotional and financial support.

“Educators and all school stakeholders must continue ensuring that learners receive the assistance they need, whether in studying or in facing personal challenges. Teachers and parents must remain close to offer guidance and encouragement,” he said.

The IFP expressed its gratitude to educators who, despite difficult circumstances, remained committed to supporting learners.

The Democratic Alliance in Gauteng called on the Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) to ensure that all examination centres were adequately resourced, well-prepared and properly secured.

The party also urged the GDE to implement all necessary measures to prevent any disruptions or leaks of examination papers.

The uMkhonto weSizwe Party and the Economic Freedom Fighters also wished the class of 2025 well for their exams.