DBE Introduces GPS Tracking for 2025 Matric Exam Paper Deliveries to Prevent Leaks
Minister of Basic Education Siviwe Gwarube announces new security measures for the 2025 matric exams during a media briefing in Skukuza, Mpumalanga
image: Internet
by Kelebogile Matlou
The Department of Basic Education (DBE) has installed GPS monitoring devices on trucks transporting matric test papers for the 2025 academic year to prevent leaks and assure the safe delivery of examination materials throughout South Africa.
Minister Siviwe Gwarube announced the proposal at a media meeting in Skukuza, Mpumalanga, on Monday, October 20, 2025. She said that all trucks will be subjected to thorough inspections at every stage of distribution in order to avoid the costly mistakes experienced in past years. With a record number of candidates set to take the examinations, the department hopes to preserve impartiality and legitimacy throughout the process.
This year marks the largest National Senior Certificate (NSC) test group in history, with over 900,000 full-time students enrolled. Including part-time candidates, the total exceeds one million. The tests will be administered in 6,955 locations around the country, including 6,376 public and 579 independent schools. Gwarube described the NSC as South Africa’s largest public test, involving substantial organization and coordination on par with national elections.
“Integrity is not negotiable. It is the foundation of the National Senior Certificate and public trust in our educational system,” Gwarube said. She explained that approximately 200 marking centers are ready, with over 40,000 markers, invigilators, and data capturers to ensure smooth operation.
The implementation of GPS tracking is part of the DBE’s larger security strategy to minimize exam paper leaks, which have been a recurring issue in previous years. The devices will allow officials to watch truck movements in real time, ensuring that established routes are followed and papers arrive safely. At each checkpoint, from printing facilities to storage and final delivery, personnel will inspect vehicle seals and record who handles the papers.
In previous years, leaks resulted in costly rewrites and investigations, undermining public trust. The DBE intends to prevent such interruptions by integrating technologies and implementing tougher regulations. Umalusi has verified and approved all 162 question papers for the October/November 2025 exams, ensuring fairness, validity, and quality.
The tests will begin on October 21 and last until November 27, 2025, covering disciplines ranging from accounting to Zulu. With more than one million learners taking part, GPS tracking will help identify odd actions such as detours or unexpected stops, assuring fast action.
Each province has set up monitoring teams and hotlines to report incidents.
To maintain transparency, the DBE has trained employees and created backup measures, such as extra vehicles and different storage locations, to deal with unforeseen disruptions like floods or protests. Strict procedures remain in place to prevent cheating, including mobile phone prohibitions in exam rooms.
Minister Gwarube continued by reinforcing the department’s commitment to fairness and integrity, saying, “This year, we are committed to delivering exams that uphold the highest standards.”
