KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Education, Sipho Hlomuka, has issued a stern warning to all matriculants to act responsibly when celebrating the end of their examinations, particularly amid growing concern over “Pens down” festivities that often follow the conclusion of the National Senior Certificate (NSC) exams.
More than 920 000 candidates are currently writing their final examinations at 6 800 centres nationwide, with the exams concluding on 27 November 2025.
In KwaZulu-Natal, 195 899 learners, made up of 179 751 full-time and 16 148 part-time candidates are sitting for the 2025 exams. This reflects a 3% increase from the 190 452 who wrote in 2024.
The KZN Department of Education warned that “Pens down” gatherings frequently involve risky behaviour, including public drinking, vandalism, and inappropriate acts such as defacing or tearing school uniforms. These actions, the department said, undermine the values of discipline, respect, and responsibility it aims to cultivate among learners.
Hlomuka urged matriculants to celebrate the end of their schooling journey with caution and maturity.
“While we commend learners for completing this critical chapter of their academic journey, we cannot condone activities that place them or others at risk,” he said. “Pens Down parties often end in tragedy, with fatal crashes and incidents that bring lifelong sadness instead of joy. We urge our young people to celebrate responsibly and to prioritise their safety and the wellbeing of their communities.”
As the 2025 matric examinations draw to a close, Hlomuka called on all stakeholders, including parents, educators, and community leaders, to encourage positive and meaningful celebrations that uphold the values of discipline, integrity, and respect.
“We want to end the year on a good note, without tragedies,” he added. “Let’s celebrate responsibly and look forward to seeing our learners progress into careers and leadership roles that contribute positively to our country.”
The department also encouraged matriculants to donate their school uniforms, neatly packaged, to needy learners when they collect their Statements of Results on 13 January 2026.
“This act of generosity will serve as a positive way to mark the end of their school journey. Parents, guardians, teachers, and community leaders are urged to work together to discourage risky celebrations and to remind learners that their actions reflect not only on themselves but also on their schools and families,” the department said.
