SECUNDA – The Class of 2025 has delivered an impressive 86.5% pass rate in the National Senior Certificate Examinations, marking a 1.5% improvement from 2024.
MEC for Education, Lindi Masina announced the results on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, at Lillian Ngoyi Centre in Secunda, highlighting the collective efforts of learners, educators, parents and communities in driving progress. Mpumalanga was ranked seventh of nine provinces nationally, landing in the lower middle of the provincial performance table. Despite this, the province remained above the 80% pass rate, making the result a notable achievement despite felling short of its 90% target.
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Speaking during the event, Masina extended her gratitude to all stakeholders, saying: “To every learner, educator, parent, official, partner, and community member, your contribution shaped this remarkable year. Your belief in the power of education continues to inspire us to move our province forward.” The Class of 2025 registered 69,510 candidates, with 67,114 writing all subjects. Notably, 28,610 learners qualified for Bachelor programmes, exceeding the 27,885 achieved in 2024. Additionally, 19,603 learners qualified for diploma programmes, a 29.2% increase from 2024.
District-wise, Ehlanzeni led with an 88% pass rate, followed by Nkangala (87.4%), Gert Sibande (87.1%), and Bohlabela (83.5%).
School performance remained strong, with 56 schools achieving a 100% pass rate. Hoërskool Nelspruit achieved a 100% pass rate, with 275 learners passing and 402 distinctions.
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In mathematics, the provincial pass rate decreased to 62.9% from 66.3%, whereas physical sciences saw an improvement to 74.7%. Notably, two learners achieved perfect scores in mathematics and business studies, respectively. The province has awarded full bursaries to top learners. The department will cover tuition, accommodation, and more at any public university in South Africa. “We’re committed to strengthening our education system, promoting inclusivity, and supporting our learners every step of the way,” Masina said.
