The Department of Basic Education (DBE) has strengthened security measures for the 2026 National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations, which begin on Tuesday, 13 October, following irregularities identified in the previous matric exams cycle. Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube confirmed the measures on Sunday, 11 October 2026, as 962 832 registered candidates across South Africa, including Gauteng, prepare for the examinations. The department has introduced stricter controls over examination materials, increased oversight of officials and activated a reporting hotline to protect the integrity of the examinations.