DIRECTOR: PUBLIC EXAMINATION REF NO: DBE/74/2026 Branch: Curriculum Policy, Support and Monitoring

The Department of Basic Education is seeking a Director for its Public Examinations Directorate, a senior leadership role situated within the National Assessment and Public Examinations unit under the Branch of Curriculum Policy, Support and Monitoring. Based in Pretoria, this position is central to the integrity, quality and successful administration of South Africa’s school-leaving examinations. The Director will manage, coordinate and support all activities of the Public Examinations Directorate, working closely with provincial education departments, examiners, moderators and quality assurance bodies such as Umalusi. The role carries significant responsibility for the National Senior Certificate and Senior Certificate examinations, from the initial setting of question papers through to the final release of results, and requires a strategic, hands-on leader capable of driving quality assurance and innovation across a complex national system.

Candidates must possess an appropriate NQF Level 7 qualification, recognised by SAQA, in Education or a related field, with a postgraduate qualification serving as an added advantage. A minimum of five years’ experience at middle or senior management level is required, of which at least three years must be specifically within education assessment and examinations. The ideal applicant will have sound knowledge of curriculum policies and assessment policies, as well as a thorough understanding of the National Senior Certificate examination system, including question paper development, moderation, standardisation, quality assurance, marking, examination monitoring, policy frameworks and the handling of examination irregularities. Working knowledge of the General and Further Education and Training Quality Assurance Act, 2001, the Regulations Pertaining to the Conduct, Administration and Management of the NSC Examinations, and the Public Finance Management Act, 1999, is essential. Proven skills in project management, strategic leadership and stakeholder liaison are also critical, alongside process competencies such as knowledge management, service delivery innovation, report writing, problem solving, client orientation and communication. Core competencies expected include strategic capability, programme and project management, financial management, people management, innovation and creativity.

The Director’s duties are broad and impactful. The incumbent will facilitate the setting of high-quality Grade 12 question papers for both the National Senior Certificate and the Senior Certificate, and will enhance the national quality assurance system for School Based Assessment in Grade 12. The role also involves facilitating the implementation of high-quality, standardised marking across all marking centres, including piloting e-marking initiatives. The Director will support and coordinate the implementation of the NSC and SC examinations across all nine provincial education departments, manage irregularities and work to enhance the integrity of the NSC. Strengthening communication with stakeholders is another key responsibility, ensuring that the examination system operates transparently and efficiently.

This is a demanding senior management position that requires a valid driver’s licence and a willingness to travel. The successful candidate will be subjected to a vetting process through the State Security Agency before assuming duty, and must sign an annual performance agreement, disclose financial interests annually, and undergo security clearance. The post offers an all-inclusive remuneration package and provides an opportunity to shape the future of basic education assessment in South Africa. This is a role for a seasoned professional with deep examination expertise and a commitment to upholding the credibility of the country’s national examinations.