Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube has strongly condemned the malicious fake news article generated using artificial intelligence (Al), which alleges a leak of the National Senior Certificate (NSC) English Paper 3 Examination.
In a statement, the Minister said the baseless claim is designed to disrupt the examination process and to prejudice over 964 000 candidates who are currently writing their matric examinations.
“This deliberate spread of disinformation during this critical period is irresponsible and undermines the preparation and aspirations of learners across the country,” the Minister said.
On Thursday, the Minister was at Thembisa West Secondary School to monitor the writing of the English Paper 3 and she confirmed that the stringent examination security systems were operating smoothly, with no leaks or other irregularities reported across all provinces.
The Department of Basic Education (DBE) has assured learners, parents and the public that the integrity of the 2026 NSC examination has not been compromised.
The department said it will report the Fake News poster to law enforcement for investigation and prosecution as it seeks to undermine the national social contract between the department and South Africans regarding the NSC Examinations.
READ | Basic Education welcomes smooth start to 2026 matric exams
The public has also been urged not to fall for or circulate unverified information intended to create panic and disrupt learners.
The NSC examinations began on Tuesday,13 October 2026.
– SAnews.gov.za
