Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube has denied false claims that there has been a leak of one of the 2026 National Senior Certificate (NSC) papers.

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Her department noted that a fake AI-generated article has been circulating, claiming that the English Paper 3 exam, which was written on Thursday, had been compromised.

We strongly condemn fake news targeting the 2026 NSC Exams.

These baseless claims seek to disrupt the NSC exams and to prejudice over 960 000 candidates currently writing their exams.

We urge you to not circulate these fake news as they are intended to disrupt our learners. https://t.co/CJp48XpyVl

— Siviwe Gwarube (@Siviwe_G) October 15, 2026

Gwarube strongly condemned the fake news.

“These baseless claims are designed to disrupt the examination process and to prejudice over 964,000 candidates who are currently writing their matric examinations,” read the department’s statement.

The department noted that the deliberate spread of this false claim is irresponsible and undermines the hard work of the candidates. Gwarube noted that the matter will be reported to the relevant law enforcement agency for further investigation. 

“The Department 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.”

She further assured the public that the integrity of the 2026 NSC exams has not been jeopardized. 

“The Minister was at Thembisa West Secondary School [yesterday] to monitor the writing of the English Paper 3 and she can confirm that the stringent examination security systems were operating smoothly, with no leaks or other irregularities reported across all provinces.”

The department has urged the public not to continue sharing the poster if they come across it.

“The public is urged not to fall for or circulate unverified information intended to create panic and disrupt learners.”