President Cyril Ramaphosa has rallied behind South Africa’s matric class of 2026, urging them to remain disciplined and focused as they prepare to write their National Senior Certificate exams in the coming weeks.
Speaking at a pledge-signing ceremony in Qwaqwa, Free State, on Friday, Ramaphosa praised the sacrifices made by learners, their families and teachers to reach this milestone.
“Writing your National Senior Certificate exams in the coming weeks is a milestone in what has been many years of perseverance and hard work in preparation,” he told students gathered at the Bluegumbosch Multipurpose Centre.
The president acknowledged the leisure time students have given up, the guidance provided by families, and the extended hours teachers have dedicated beyond regular school time.
Teachers praised for dedication
“Today, and every other day, we salute our country’s educators whose commitment and dedication to our learners often extend long after lessons have ended. Teachers often forgo time with their own families to be with their students,” Ramaphosa said.
He recognised the particular challenges faced by learners from poor communities and disadvantaged households who excel despite the odds stacked against them.
The president noted steady improvement in the performance of learners from no-fee schools in both townships and rural areas, calling it evidence of progress in building an education system where everyone has an equal chance.
Free State challenged to reclaim top spot
Ramaphosa playfully challenged the Free State to reclaim its position as the top-performing province after KwaZulu-Natal broke its three-year winning streak in 2025.
“In 2024, the Free State achieved the highest matric pass rate in the country for the third consecutive year. But last year, KwaZulu-Natal broke that winning streak,” he said.
“As the President of the Republic, I cannot favour any one province in the competition for first place, but we do expect the Free State to do everything it can to take its crown back.”
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Pledge to uphold integrity
During the ceremony, students pledged to do their best, support their peers and uphold the principles of honesty and integrity. Similar ceremonies are taking place across the country.
“The sacrifices have been too great, the journey too long and the investment in yourselves too precious to be derailed now by even a momentary lapse in judgement. You dare not risk all you have set out to achieve,” the president warned.
Ramaphosa concluded his message with words of encouragement: “Believe in yourselves, for we believe in you. The nation stands behind you. We are proud of you for having reached this milestone. And we wish you every success.”
The ceremony was attended by Free State Premier Maqueen Letsoha-Mathae, MEC for Education Mantlhake Julia Maboya, and local government representatives.
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