Exams watchdog Umalusi says ongoing investigations into irregularities in certain National Senior Certificate (NSC) exams will not delay the release of results for the thousands of learners not implicated.

The incident involves 26 learners from seven Pretoria schools, who admitted accessing Mathematics, Physical Sciences, and English Home Language papers before their final exams.

Addressing the media this morning, Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube announced that two departmental officials have been suspended for their suspected involvement.

“We are not only following our own internal processes regarding the suspension of these individuals, but there are also criminal elements involved in possessing stolen state material.”

Umalusi spokesperson Biki Lepota confirmed that a preliminary report has been received.

“We are satisfied with the steps taken so far, including reporting the cases to the South African Police Services (SAPS). Ongoing investigations are aiming to determine the full extent of the irregularities. The DBE is expected to present its findings to the Executive Committee of the Umalusi Council during the approval of the results at a meeting scheduled for 6–8 January 2026.”

The Director-General of Basic Education has also announced that a National Investigative Task Team (NITT) will be established to probe the exams breach. The investigation is set to begin within the next 24 hours.