The Department of Basic Education is ready for the 2026 matric examinations, with thousands of candidates expected to sit for the National Senior Certificate exams across the country. Briefing the media in Pretoria on Sunday, Basic Education Minister, Siviwe Gwarube says examination papers have been set, schools assessed for readiness and learners prepared through rigorous assessments and additional academic support. The department is targeting stronger monitoring to prevent irregularities, while also calling on communities to ensure learners have a conducive environment to write their exams. Our reporter, Musa Mhlongo has the details