{
  "id": 10948641,
  "title": "More than marks: Supporting SA’s learners through exam season",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/30/more-than-marks-supporting-sas-learners-through-exam-season",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-09-30T12:43:06.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "SABC News",
    "slug": "sabc-news",
    "url": "https://www.sabcnews.com/sabcnews/more-than-marks-supporting-south-africas-learners-through-exam-season/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The 2026 National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations represent a major milestone for learners in South Africa. These exams are more than just a measure of academic achievement; they are an opportunity for young people to showcase their learning and open doors to various pathways beyond school. The Department of Basic Education emphasizes that NSC exams are about more than just marks, highlighting the aspirations, potential, and future prospects of each learner. Behind every examination number is a young person with dreams and a future to build, supported by a network of teachers, parents, guardians, officials, and communities throughout their educational journey. During this critical period, the focus must extend beyond ensuring exam administration and integrity; it must also encompass the academic, emotional, and social well-being of learners. Schools play a crucial role by providing structured revision, additional academic support, and safe, supportive environments. However, learner wellbeing is equally important; exam periods can be stressful, and learners should feel comfortable seeking help and accessing the necessary psychosocial support without fear of stigma. Parents and guardians also play a vital role by helping learners establish healthy routines and offering encouragement. Communities must contribute to creating safe and conducive learning conditions for young people. As the Class of 2026 prepares for these exams at a time of rapid technological change, it is crucial that they are not only proficient in using emerging technologies but also understand how to engage with them critically, responsibly, and ethically. While artificial intelligence and other technologies can aid learning by providing explanations, generating practice questions, and exploring subjects in innovative ways, technology alone cannot replace the core elements of education such as critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving. Moreover, learners must recognize the importance of academic integrity and adhere to examination rules, retaining essential knowledge and judgment skills for a complex world. Matric is a significant milestone, but it is not the end of the journey. The path after matric is diverse, with options ranging from university or university of technology, TVET colleges, Community Education and Training colleges, to apprenticeships, entrepreneurship, or continuing education through various forms of training. Success after matric can take many forms, and learners should be encouraged to explore these pathways based on their abilities, interests, and aspirations. Government initiatives, such as the National Student Financial Aid Scheme, Presidential Youth Employment Intervention, and SAYouth.mobi, provide support for students pursuing further education, employment, training, learnerships, and work-experience opportunities. It is essential for learners and their families to understand these options, meet the necessary requirements, and apply within the specified timelines. Ultimately, education should equip young people with the qualifications and skills needed to contribute meaningfully to society and the economy. South Africa faces challenges such as unemployment and skills shortages, making it crucial to strengthen the link between schooling, further education and training, and economic opportunities. The Department of Basic Education’s Three Stream Model, which includes Academic, Technical Vocational, and Technical Occupational pathways, aims to cater to different strengths, interests, and aspirations, ensuring that all learners have access to meaningful opportunities for growth and development.",
  "summary": "Education must ultimately equip young people not only to obtain qualifications.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}