DA congratulates IEB matrics on 98% pass rate
19 January 2022
Note to Editors: Please find attached soundbite by Baxolile ‘Bax’ Nodada MP.
The DA commends the Independent Examinations Board (IEB) matric class of 2021 for their outstanding results, having a pass rate of 98.39%.
These matrics faced exceptionally hard challenges to complete their studies and their outstanding results speak of their motivation, determination and perseverance. They had to complete both their senior years under a strenuous lockdown with constant changes to school regulations that lead to frequent interruptions to schooling.
Despite the challenges of the rotational timetable, school closures and the need to work from home, these IEB learners did extremely well, with 89.2% achieving entry to degree study at a tertiary level. A further 7.82% qualified for admission to diploma study, and 1.37% achieved admission for study at the higher certificate level.
The Department of Basic Education (DBE) must learn from the IEB and implement necessary changes to the schooling system so that we can see similar results for the National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations. The DBE should:
Increase the number of teachers specialising in mathematics and science subjects;
Adapt the curriculum to meet the needs of the economy through introducing subjects such as nautical science, maritime economics, and sports and science studies; and
Ensure teachers continuously upskill through offering primary and high schools a range of workshops or by partnering with education training institutions designed to support the professional development of educators from the foundation phase to Grade 12.
South Africa’s learners deserve to have bright futures. Increasing the quality of teaching and improving curriculum relevance not only ensure that learners are well-prepared for their matric examinations, but also their futures. Without these crucial interventions, South Africa’s economic decline will continue its rapid deterioration to the detriment of us all.
Issued by Bax Nodada, DA Shadow Minister of Basic Education, 19 January 2022
