The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Gauteng proudly joins learners and their families in celebrating the outstanding accomplishments of the 2023 matric cohort. Most of these learners had to overcome unique challenges to realise this goal. We are proud of their achievements and wish them well in their future endeavours.
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to the 21 schools that have consistently achieved a remarkable 100% pass rate from 2019 to 2023. Demonstrating commendable dedication, our learners have achieved an overall pass rate of 85.38%, an increase of 0.98%.
Our appreciation extends to the 140 schools across the province that have achieved a commendable 100% pass rate, reflecting the hard work and commitment of both learners and educators.
While celebrating these successes, we express our concern for the 14 schools that recorded a pass rate lower than 60%, notably highlighting Noordgesig Secondary School, which experienced a decline from 74.3% in 2022 to 58.0% in 2023. The school faced challenges in 2022 and was forced to implement rotational learning due to 13 asbestos classrooms deemed unsafe by the Department of Labour. The department’s failure to promptly address this issue and provide alternative classrooms has undeniably impacted the overall performance of matriculants at Noordgesig Secondary School.
We are also concerned that 73 schools under section 58b of underperforming schools scored less than 70% in the 2023 academic year. This is a clear indication that immediate initiatives are needed to improve the quality of education in these schools. In addition, 51,678 learners dropped out between grades 10 and 12, resulting in a 28.8% dropout rate.
Accordingly, the DA argues that the real matric pass rate is 60.8% because the real pass rate is calculated by considering the number of learners that dropped out and never reached matriculation.
The DA in Gauteng extends sincere gratitude to parents and teachers for their unwavering dedication and support, guiding learners through this pivotal milestone in their educational journey.
Looking ahead to 2024, the DA reaffirms its commitment to holding the Gauteng government accountable. We will continue to advocate for a conducive teaching and learning environment in all Gauteng schools.