Republic of South Africa
English
DBE
Department of Basic Education
Republic of South Africa

Building a quality basic education for every learner

Quality Basic Education for an Equal and Prosperous South Africa

The Department of Basic Education leads the development of curriculum, policy and support that gives every South African learner the opportunity to succeed.

23 000+
Public schools nationwide
13 million
Learners enrolled
440 000+
Educators in service
9
Provincial education departments

Quick Links

Frequently accessed services and resources

Latest News & Announcements

Updates from the Department of Basic Education

28 June 2026

Minister Releases 2025 National Senior Certificate Diagnostic Report

The report outlines subject-by-subject performance trends and the interventions planned for the 2026 academic year.

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22 June 2026

Call for Comment: Draft Policy on School Infrastructure Standards

Members of the public and stakeholders are invited to submit written comments before the closing date.

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15 June 2026

Winter School Programme Extended to All Provinces

Additional revision support for Grade 12 learners will run in identified districts during the school holiday.

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About the Department

The Department of Basic Education (DBE) is responsible for basic education in South Africa, from Grade R to Grade 12, including adult basic education. DBE works alongside provincial education departments to develop curriculum policy, set examination standards and monitor the quality of education delivered in public and independent schools across the country.

National Senior Certificate

The NSC examination is written annually by Grade 12 learners and remains the benchmark qualification for entry into higher education and the workplace. Timetables, examination guidelines and past question papers are published ahead of each sitting.

Annual Report & Policy Documents

Access strategic plans, circulars and gazetted policy notices.

View Publications