As we reflect on the exceptional achievements of the matric class of 2024, we acknowledge the significant strides made in our education system, resulting in a historic pass rate of 87.3%, up from 82.95% in 2023. This milestone represents not only the hard work and determination of learners and educators, but also the impact of over three decades of government commitment to improving education in South Africa.
The Class of 2024 entered high school amid unprecedented disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, when hard lockdowns and school closures threatened to derail their educational journey. Yet, through the tireless efforts of both educators, and learners, this cohort has broken records, reaffirming our collective resilience.
At the heart of this success lies the continuous support provided by government through various programmes designed to ensure that all learners have access to quality education. The Department of Basic Education implemented targeted interventions for the Class of 2024, including personalised learning initiatives, extended hours, Saturday catch-up sessions, and extra lessons. These efforts were critical in ensuring that learners’ right to education, as outlined in Section 29 of the Constitution, was safeguarded.
Since the advent of democracy in 1994, government has consistently prioritised education, implementing policies and programmes that promote equity, inclusivity, and access to high-quality learning opportunities.
The National Development Plan (NDP), in particular, provides a long-term framework for addressing the country’s socio-economic challenges, with clear goals to halve unemployment, eradicate poverty and reduce inequality by 2030. In the context of education, the NDP sets out a vision for a world-class education system that equips learners with the skills necessary to thrive in a global economy.
The enactment of the Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Act of 2024 is one of the latest milestones in our ongoing efforts to strengthen the education system. The Act reinforces government’s commitment to providing equitable and inclusive education, ensuring that no learner is excluded from accessing quality education at any stage of their schooling. As President Cyril Ramaphosa has stated, the BELA Act continues the work begun in 1994, ensuring that every child receives an education that lays the foundation for their future success.
In addition, initiatives such as the National School Nutrition Programme, the School Transport Programme, and the No-Fee Schools Initiative play a critical role in breaking down barriers that prevent disadvantaged learners from completing their education. The Accelerated Schools Infrastructure Delivery Initiative has also significantly improved school infrastructure, addressing the long-standing issue of inadequate facilities that hinder the learning experience for many leaners.
The results of these initiatives are evident in the increasing number of learners writing the National Senior Certificate (NSC) exams, including those with special educational needs. In 2024, the number of learners with special education needs who wrote the NSC increased from 5 288 in 2023 to 6 470.
According to the 30-Year Review of South Africa’s Democracy report, “the country has progressed in educational outcomes, with an increasing number of individuals aged 20 and older attaining Grade 12 as their highest level of education, rising from 16% in 1996 to 38% by 2022”.
As we celebrate these achievements, we must also acknowledge the importance of collaboration in education. The partnerships between government, universities, the private sector and civil society have been instrumental in creating opportunities for learners and ensuring that education remains a priority. In her speech during the announcement of the 2024 matric results, Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube emphasised the fact education should not only be a government responsibility, “when society invests collectively in education, it fosters greater equity and inclusivity,” she said.
Looking beyond matric, government has invested in various post-school education and training opportunities, including higher education, technical and vocational education colleges, and skills development programmes. The National Student Financial Aid Scheme continues to provide financial support to students, breaking down financial barriers to tertiary education. Additionally, the Central Application Clearing House initiative ensures that matriculants who did not initially gain admission to higher education have a second chance to pursue their academic goals.
With these efforts in place, it is pleasing to note that the 30-year review report states that the country is on track to meet its NDP target of enrolling 1.6 million students in higher education by 2030. As of 2024, when the report was published, there were 1.3 million students enrolled, 82% in public and 18% in private institutions.
Government support extends beyond those who succeed. Initiatives like the Second Chance Matric Programme offer individuals the opportunity to improve their results or complete their matric qualification on a part-time basis. These programmes ensure that no learner is left behind, and that everyone has the opportunity to succeed in education, regardless of their circumstances.
Let us continue to build on these achievements, ensuring that all young South Africans have access to the quality education they deserve. Government will continue to work in partner- ship with all sectors of society to support this goal, ensuring that education remains at the forefront of South Africa’s democratic agenda.