Matric Results 2016 are in!

828 020 full-time and part-time learners participated in the National Senior Certificate exams.

Dr Rufus Poliah, the Chief Director at Department of Basic Education, stated that inroads had been made towards inclusivity the past two decades. Now the goal must be to ensure quality learning that educates holistically, creating life-long learners and fulfilling a vision towards 2030.

Angie Motshekga, the Minister of Basic Education, announced that the pass rate, without progressed learners, was 76.2%. With progressed learners, it was 72%. Both an increase on last year.

RESULTS PER PROVINCE (WITHOUT PROGRESSED LEARNERS)

• Eastern Cape – 63.3%
• Limpopo – 68.2%
• KZN – 69.5%
• Mpumalanga – 81.3%
• Northern Cape – 82.2%
• North West – 86.2% (up 9%)
• Gauteng – 87%
• Western Cape – 87.7% (down 0.3%)
• Free State – 93.2% (up 7.4%)

8% of South Africa’s schools achieved a 100% pass rate. 18 schools delivered a zero pass rate. Half of the learners qualified for higher education.

Maths and Science produced the best gains since 2003. More girls than boys gained distinctions.

Almost 10% of registered students missed an exam or exams.

The Western Cape’s Overberg district achieved the highest pass rate in the country (the province’s statistics will be released on Friday).

Did education improve or did education standards drop so as to create an illusion of improvement? How can progressed learners, those who failed Grade 11 and were pushed into Grade 12, be separated in the results? What percentage of learners dropped out? Include them, and the pass rate drops radically.

That kind of debate will rage on social media. Poliah is convinced that we are on the right path and said that it’s typical of South Africa to meet good news with skepticism.

The certainty is that South Africa has a long way to go to rescue its children who are the only hope of arresting a country in decline.

Read:

• ‘Were South Africa’s Matric 2016 Results Faked?’
• ‘Matric Results an Indicator of Primary Schooling Crisis‘

NB: If any students feel stressed, depressed or suicidal, they should call 0800 428 428 (toll free). Students can also dial *120*7867# (free) which will result in a social worker contacting them.