DBE
The Department of Basic Education (DBE) has rolled out a new security measure by fitting GPS trackers on trucks carrying matric exam papers for the 2025 academic year.
This step aims to stop leaks and ensure the safe delivery of these important documents.
Minister Siviwe Gwarube announced the plan during a media briefing in Skukuza, Mpumalanga, on Monday, 20 October 2025. She stressed that trucks will face strict checks at every stage of distribution to dodge the expensive errors seen in past years. With a record-breaking number of candidates set to write the exams, this move shows the department’s focus on keeping the process fair and trustworthy.
This year marks the biggest group ever for the National Senior Certificate (NSC) exams, with over 900,000 full-time learners registered. Adding part-time candidates brings the total to more than 1 million. The exams will take place at 6,955 centres across the country, including 6,376 public schools and 579 independent ones. Gwarube called the NSC the largest public test in the education system, noting that outside of elections, no event needs more planning and coordination. The department has spent the whole year preparing to handle risks tied to the papers.
“Integrity is not negotiable. It is the cornerstone of the National Senior Certificate, and of public trust in our education system,” said Gwarube. She added that nearly 200 marking centres are ready, with over 40,000 markers, invigilators, and data capturers on board to help run the exams smoothly.
Enhanced Security Measures to Combat Exam Leaks
The GPS trackers are a key part of the DBE’s plan to protect exam papers from leaks, which have caused big problems in the past. These devices will let officials monitor the trucks in real time, making sure they stick to their routes and arrive safely. At each stop, from printing to storage and delivery, teams will check the vehicles thoroughly. This includes seals on containers and logs of who handles the papers.
In previous years, leaks led to rewrites and probes, costing time and money while hurting trust in the system. For 2025, the department wants to avoid that by using tech and tight rules. All 162 question papers for the October/November exams have been checked and approved by Umalusi, the quality assurance body. This green light means the content is fair, valid, and up to standard.
The exams start on 21 October 2025 and run until 27 November 2025, covering subjects from Accounting to Zulu. With so many papers moving around, the trackers will help spot any odd activity right away, like detours or stops that are not planned. This tech boost is part of a wider effort to make the process more secure and efficient.
Record-Breaking Candidate Numbers and Exam Centres
This year’s matric class is the largest yet, with 908,881 full-time candidates signed up, up from last year. When part-timers are added, the figure tops 1,022,910. These learners come from all nine provinces, with Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal having the most. The growth shows more young people staying in school and aiming for their NSC, a key step to jobs or further studies.
The 6,955 exam centres include public and independent schools, spread out to make sure everyone can write close to home. Of these, 579 are independent, showing the mix of education options. Gwarube pointed out the huge scale, saying it needs careful planning to get papers to every spot on time and safely.
Provinces have set up their own teams to watch the process, with hotlines for reporting issues. In places like the Eastern Cape and Limpopo, where rural areas can be hard to reach, the trackers will be especially useful for tracking trucks over long distances.
Logistical Challenges and Year-Long Preparations
Running the matric exams is like a massive operation, with millions of papers printed, packed, and sent out. Gwarube said the department has prepped all year to cut risks, from choosing safe routes to training staff on security. The GPS system is a new tool in this kit, adding a layer of tech to old-school checks like escorts and sealed boxes.
The exams involve not just writing but also marking and results. With 200 centres and 40,000 helpers, the DBE has made sure everyone knows their role. Markers will handle scripts fairly, while data capturers enter results quickly for the January release.
Past issues, like floods or protests delaying deliveries, have taught lessons. This year, backup plans include extra trucks and storage spots. The focus on integrity means zero tolerance for cheats, with rules against phones in halls and reports of wrongdoing leading to bans.
Building Public Trust in the Education System
Gwarube wrapped up by saying the NSC’s value depends on its fairness. “This year, we are committed to delivering exams that uphold the highest standards,” she said. The trackers and checks aim to keep public faith in the system, ensuring every learner has a fair shot.
For the class of 2025, this means focusing on studies without worry about leaks. Tips for success include past papers and revision guides, available online. Provinces offer extra classes and support for those needing help in tough subjects.
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