The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Gauteng congratulates the matric class of 2024 for a significant improvement pass rate obtaining 88,4% pass rate, an increase from 83,4% achieved for 2023.
As we reflect on the resilience and determination of the Class of 2024, we recognize that this cohort started their journey in Grade 8 amidst the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, which emerged in early 2020. Despite these obstacles, they have shown remarkable perseverance.
The national pass rate has reached a historic 87.3% seeing an impressive increase of 4,4%, with all provinces showing progress compared to last year, which is a testament to the hard work of learners and educators across the country as well as the commitment by Minister Gwarube to improve educational outcomes.
We remain committed to improving education and advocating for policies that support learners. The Minister’s announcement that there will be an urgent strategic reorientation of the education system towards strengthening the foundation of learning reinforces this commitment.
While we celebrate the successes of the Class of 2024, we must also acknowledge that some learners did not achieve the results they hoped for. To those matriculants who faced disappointment this is not the end of your educational journey. The second chance program offers a valuable opportunity for you to improve your results and pursue your academic goals. To parents, guardians, family members, and friends, your support for these learners is crucial during this time.
In response to recent comments from the MEC for Education Matome Chiloane, who stated that when he speaks right, I speak left, I want to emphasise that there are serious concerns in Gauteng education that require urgent attention. Issues such as a lack of new schools, failing infrastructure, overcrowding, asbestos schools, scholar transport, and school nutrition must be addressed to ensure even better matric results in the future.
Moreover, it would be remiss not to mention the slight drop in pass marks and bachelor passes at Pretoria High School for Girls between 2023 and 2024, with the pass rate falling from 99,66% to 99,19%. This decline can be directly attributed to the unwarranted attack and investigation of the MEC and GDE. Despite this, we congratulate Pretoria High School for Girls on their perseverance.
Relebogile Secondary School in Khutsong saw a significant drop from 62,77% in 2023 to 57,54% in 2024, largely due to its temporary location following a sinkhole incident nearly two years ago. This situation highlights how critical a conducive learning environment is for learners to succeed.
On a positive note, we commend many schools located in TISH communities for their outstanding results. These achievements demonstrate that many of our non-fee-paying township schools are outperforming their fee-paying counterparts, showcasing the potential within these communities.
Congratulations to the Matric class of 2024!