Authorities investigate allegations that students were barred from exams to maintain school performance metrics

Students at Meadowlands Technical High School noted that the first part of the math exam was less difficult compared to their practice tests, although some students found the calculus problems and high-level questions challenging.

Simran Sukraj from Montford reported that despite several difficult questions, the paper was generally good and easier than the practice exams. Sukraj added that completing the first part helped her understand how to prepare for the second part. Despite the assessment year being 'stressful,' Sukraj maintained an overall average grade of B-.

She plans to study computer science and aims to build a career in software development or information technology.

Yuvika Singh stated that this exam was significantly better than most of the work she had written. Singh noted that the calculus questions seemed difficult to her because they were fourth-level complexity tasks that were hard to solve. This future sonographer emphasized that a large amount of study and consistent effort helped her get through the year.

Naomi Chetty said that while she considered the exam relatively easy, there were some complex questions with significant weight. She expects to receive a good grade on this paper. Chetty explained that she planned her studies based on an individual schedule that accounted for the official exam timetable. She also mentioned that her assessment year was busy thanks to the support of intervention and review programs conducted by the school during breaks.

Naomi Chetty hopes to take advantage of an internship opportunity at a major engine manufacturer, which will allow her to gain qualifications as an electrical engineer. Students are scheduled to write the second part of the math exam on October 26.

Graduates of Pelican Park High School gave mixed reviews to the first math exam, calling it a challenging test. Some students felt relieved after completing the first test, while others have already started preparing for the second part.

On Friday, October 23, 2026, thousands of National Senior Certificate (NSC) candidates took the first math exam, the first numeracy exam, or the first technical math exam.

The math exam is considered one of the most crucial stages in the NSC schedule, as it is a gateway subject determining eligibility for university admission in STEM, medicine, finance, and engineering fields.

Seventeen-year-old Ntombizodwa Mdwayi shared that preparation for the exam took months, including late-night study sessions and practicing past papers. She noted that 'Part One covers algebra, functions, and calculus—this is where you need to solidify your fundamentals.' Mdwayi reported that her mind was preoccupied with formulas since Wednesday, but she believes she put in maximum effort and 'thinks she did everything possible; the exam wasn't too bad.'

She added that some questions required analytical thinking and precise problem-solving, but staying calm helped her manage the test.

Another student, Tadiwa Namo, shared a different experience, admitting that the exam seemed particularly difficult to her. Despite feeling well-prepared before the session began, complex multi-step questions and time constraints created pressure during the testing. Namo expressed hope and determination to focus efforts on preparing for the upcoming Part Two, noting that the high school learning process itself was enjoyable, and she looks forward to the future with optimism.

A third student, Clayton Rossow, struggled to describe the exam, characterizing it as neither too easy nor too difficult. He stated, 'I am glad that Part One is over,' and added that the stress preceding the exam began to dissipate after overcoming the first major hurdle. Rossow expressed hope for a good result in Part Two, reflecting the sentiment of many candidates who are now shifting their focus to the next critical component of the assessment.

The next exam, Mathematics Part 2, is scheduled for Monday, October 26. After completing Part One, students will concentrate on preparing for the next challenge.

Senior students at Harwastan School rated the Afrikaans language (Part 3) and history exams as fair and manageable, although some faced difficulties due to unfamiliar essay and transactional writing topics.

Kesia Moonsami from Queensberg noted that the Afrikaans language exam, which included an essay and transactional writing, was good. However, she was surprised because none of the topics she expected were included in the test. Moonsami mentioned that the essay section was difficult because her prepared essay did not match the exam questions, forcing her to improvise. She also mentioned that the transactional writing question was unexpected for her, although she managed to answer it.

Despite the difficulties in some sections, Moonsami is aiming for A symbols in Afrikaans and plans to build a career in certified accounting.

Sumayan Doorsami from Malvern encountered problems adhering to the required word count. He noted that the essay topic he prepared for did appear on the exam, but it was difficult for him to stay within the word limit and use correct grammar. He enjoyed the transactional writing section, however, as he could find a connection to the topic and found it easier to write about.

Doorsami reported that his preparation for the final exams involved regular study sessions and avoiding distractions such as mobile phones. He emphasized that consistent work helped him, and he sought help when he didn't understand something, acknowledging that the exams are challenging.

Doorsami, who is passionate about helping people, believes that a nursing career is his choice. Danae Govender from Woodhurst called the Afrikaans language exam 'fair and manageable.' She also mentioned preparing an essay on a topic that was not on the list, which created difficulties when writing about a completely different subject.

Govender highly praised the history exam, noting that the school has an incredible support system. She commended the principal for their wonderful qualities and the teachers for their well-organized teaching methods and support. She intends to study B.Com Law for a future career in commercial law.

Graduates will take the Information Technology exam on Wednesday, and the Accounting exam on Thursday.