By Teboho Moloi
BLOEMFONTEIN – The Free State’s 2025 matric preparatory examinations are proceeding without major setbacks, with Education MEC Dr Julia Maboya urging learners, parents and communities to rally behind the Class of 2025.
The exams began on September 1 with the Life Orientation paper and will run until September 30. Thus far, the provincial Department of Education says the process has been smooth, crediting learners, teachers, and stakeholders for the strong start.
Dr Maboya called on learners facing difficulties to seek support from teachers and peers, while also appealing to parents and communities to step in.
“With continued support and effort, we are confident that our learners will achieve academic excellence,” she said.
The department is targeting a 95% pass rate and 55% bachelor passes in the final exams, according to spokesperson Howard Ndaba. He described the launch of the preparatory exams as “seamless,” noting that they give learners a chance to simulate final exam conditions.
The Free State has consistently dominated the National Senior Certificate results. In 2024, it secured the top spot with a 91% pass rate, ahead of KwaZulu-Natal (89.5%) and Gauteng (88.4%).
Education officials say the province’s track record, combined with the steady rollout of this year’s preparatory exams, strengthens confidence that the Free State will remain the country’s top-performing province.
