The quality assurance council Umalusi has announced stricter regulations for all online and distance education providers offering the National Senior Certificate (NSC).
The council emphasized that final examinations must now be written in person at officially registered exam centres. A move aimed at protecting the credibility and integrity of the South African matric qualification.
According to Umalusi, the surge in online schools during recent years has created a gap in regulation, leading to concerns about exam authenticity and unfair advantages. The council’s new enforcement ensures that learners registered under any virtual or distance-learning institution will have to sit for their final papers under the same controlled conditions as those attending public or private schools.
Education experts have praised the decision, saying it promotes fairness and consistency across all platforms of learning. However, some online education providers expressed worry about the logistical and financial challenges this policy may create, particularly for learners in remote areas.
Umalusi has further indicated that more policy updates will follow to ensure that digital education remains credible and aligned with national standards. The council will also brief the media on readiness for the 2025 end-of-year examinations, covering the NSC and other qualifications, later this month.
Edited by Matlala Kgaugelo
