In recent weeks, South African parents, educators, and students were caught off guard by viral claims suggesting a “revamped” 2025 school calendar. These reports, which spread rapidly across social media and WhatsApp, were quickly debunked by the Department of Basic Education (DBE). The official 2025 school calendar, published in the Government Gazette in January 2023, remains unchanged. This article clarifies the correct calendar, addresses the false claims, and emphasizes the importance of verifying information through official channels.
Official 2025 School Calendar
The DBE published the 2025 school calendar on January 31, 2023, outlining the academic year for public schools across South Africa. The calendar applies to both inland and coastal provinces, ensuring a unified schedule. Below are the confirmed term dates:
Term 1
- Start Date: January 15, 2025
- End Date: March 28, 2025
- Duration: 11 weeks
- Public Holidays: Human Rights Day (March 21)
Term 2
- Start Date: April 8, 2025
- End Date: June 20, 2025
- Duration: 11 weeks
- Public Holidays: Freedom Day (April 27), Workers’ Day (May 1)
Term 3
- Start Date: July 15, 2025
- End Date: September 19, 2025
- Duration: 10 weeks
- Public Holidays: National Women’s Day (August 9)
Term 4
- Start Date: October 7, 2025
- End Date: December 5, 2025
- Duration: 9 weeks
- Public Holidays: None during term time
The calendar includes 200 school days, with additional “special school holidays” on April 28, April 30, and May 2, 2025, due to public holidays creating long weekends. The official document is available in the Government Gazette and on the DBE website.
The Viral Fake Claims
In early June 2025, a viral article falsely claimed that the DBE had revised the 2025 school calendar with new term dates and breaks. The post, originating from a known fake news website, suggested the changes aimed to “optimize learning periods” and “ensure sufficient rest.” It gained traction on platforms like WhatsApp and social media, causing confusion among parents and educators.
Debunking the Misinformation
The DBE swiftly condemned the claims, with Western Cape Education MEC David Maynier and other officials clarifying that no changes had been made. News24’s Fact Check Desk traced the article to a website notorious for spreading unverified content, marking it as the second fake story from the same source that month. The DBE emphasized that any calendar changes would require a formal notice signed by the Minister and published in the Government Gazette, which did not occur.
Official Channels for Verification
To avoid falling for misinformation, the DBE urged the public to rely on its official website www.education.gov.za, the Government Gazette, or verified social media accounts. The department reiterated that unverified sources, especially those shared via social media, should be treated with skepticism.
Why Misinformation Spreads
The rapid spread of the fake calendar highlights the challenge of combating misinformation in the digital age. AI-generated content and copycat websites often exploit public interest in topics like education, grants, or public sector jobs. Without clear indicators like poor spelling or irrelevant images, such posts can appear credible, especially when shared by trusted contacts.
Staying Informed
The 2025 school calendar remains as published, and families should plan accordingly. By sticking to official sources, South Africans can ensure they receive accurate information and avoid the confusion caused by viral hoaxes.
Official Calendar Links:
Sources:
- Department of Basic Education: South African National Department of Education
- News24: False SA school calendar goes viral – from a known fake news website
- The Citizen: No, the 2025 school calendar has not changed