The National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations will commence on 13 October, and the final paper will be written on 26 November 2026. The official countdown has begun with only 11 days to go before the culmination of the 12-year academic journey of the Class of 2026!
The National Pledge Signing Ceremony is scheduled for Friday, 9 October 2026 at 10:00 during a formal assembly of all Grade 12 candidates as part of their orientation and preparation for the conduct of the November/December examination. The examination rules on the reverse side of the Admission Letter, will be read out to candidates during the principal’s address; however, participating schools must inform candidates that the signing of the Pledge is voluntary, but essential.
Learners are advised that the Pledge is a commitment to not engage in any act of dishonesty during the examinations and understanding the importance of fairness and ethical conduct. Candidates are also promising to respect their teachers and classmates and aspire honestly and diligently towards success.
Basic Education Minister, Ms Siviwe Gwarube explains the purpose of the Pledge as “a declaration that South Africa’s education system is committed to producing citizens who can be trusted, who value hard work, and who conduct themselves with integrity. Our vision for the basic education system is not only to produce learners who pass exams, but to produce young people who are principled, ethical, and inspired to build a better South Africa and a better Africa. The pledge is a solemn declaration that candidates will not allow dishonesty, cheating, or any form of misconduct to define their journey. It is a commitment to fairness and truthfulness. When a candidate puts their name on the pledge, they are saying that success will be earned through effort, not through shortcuts or deceit”.
The NSC examination represents the hopes and aspirations of South African learners; it is a gateway to further education, skills development, and an opportunity for learners to gain access to the economy and live lives of dignity. The NSC examinations are not the end of a journey, but the beginning of a new chapter, let’s make it a good and honest chapter.