The Department of Basic Education has confirmed that the 2025 National Senior Certificate (NSC) examination results will be published in accredited newspapers on 13 January 2026, despite ongoing legal processes involving the Information Regulator.
“The 2025 National Senior Certificate (NSC) examination results will be made available to accredited newspapers for publication on 13 January 2026, in the same pseudonymised format used in recent years – namely, examination numbers and results only, with no names, surnames or ID numbers,” the statement read.
The department said it remains legally bound to publish the results in this manner, citing an existing court order.
“The Department of Basic Education is of the view that it is legally obliged to publish the results in this pseudonymised format, as the court order granted on 18 January 2022 expressly requires this approach. This order remains in force,” it stated.
As reported by the department, publishing matric results in newspapers continues to be an important access point for learners and parents.
“The publication of NSC results in accredited newspapers has long been an important and accessible method for learners and parents to obtain results timeously,” the statement said, adding that the approach balances accessibility with the protection of personal information.
#nsc | FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | THE DEPARTMENT OF BASIC EDUCATION CONFIRMS NSC RESULTS IN ACCREDITED NEWSPAPERS!
The Department of Education can confirm that The National Senior Certificate 2025 results will be publicly available in accredited newspapers nationwide this year,… pic.twitter.com/9tzTvFnz5V
— Dep. Basic Education (@DBE_SA) January 8, 2026
The department also confirmed that it will oppose the Information Regulator’s application for leave to appeal the matter.
“The Department further confirms that it will oppose the application for leave to appeal by the Information Regulator,” the statement said, noting that this position is taken “in the best interests of learners, their families, and the education sector.”
According to the department, it believes the appeal has little chance of success. “The Department remains firmly of the view that the application has no reasonable prospects of success, given the clarity already provided by the courts,” it said.
At the same time, the department emphasised that its legal stance should not be viewed as disrespectful. “
The Department emphasises that it holds the highest respect for the Office of the Information Regulator and its constitutional mandate,” the statement read, adding that it “values the Regulator’s role and looks forward to continued and constructive engagement.”
The Department of Basic Education concluded by reaffirming its commitment to compliance and learner protection.
“The Department of Basic Education remains committed to legal compliance, learner protection, transparency, and accessibility, while ensuring that the rights and dignity of every learner are respected,” it said.
First published by African Insider
Compiled by Lisabeal Nqamqhele
Also see: Tips to support your child waiting for matric results
