We gather at Parliament today to begin the year by addressing an issue that is as critical as it is personal to every South African—the state of our education system.
Last week, the Minister of Basic Education, Siviwe Gwarube, announced the matric results for the Class of 2024, celebrating an official pass rate of 87.3%. At first glance, this figure paints a picture of progress and success. However, when we look beyond the surface, the reality is far more troubling.
The truth, stripped of political spin and manipulation, reveals a system in crisis. Of the 1.2 million learners who began their schooling journey in grade one in 2013, only 615,000 managed to pass matric in 2024. That is a real pass rate of just 51%. This means that over 590,000 young South Africans have been left behind, their futures dimmed by a system that should have uplifted them.
While some of these learners may have pursued alternative education paths, such as technical and vocational training, the majority have likely fallen through the cracks. They face a daunting future—one where finding meaningful employment or entering the economy will be an uphill battle.
Education is the cornerstone of any successful society. It is the foundation on which we build communities, economies, and futures. Yet, in South Africa, this foundation is crumbling. The matric results of 2024 serve as a stark reminder of the urgent need to rethink and rebuild our education system.
The key indicators of concern in the 2024 Matric Results are:
- High Dropout Rate: Of 1.2 million learners who started grade one in 2013, only 51% completed matric in 2024.
- Low University Admission Rates: Just 47% of learners achieved a Bachelor’s Pass, and fewer than 15% of these students will enrol in university.
- 30% Pass Mark: A minimum pass mark of 30% undermines the capabilities of South Africa’s youth, perpetuating low expectations and poor outcomes.
- International Rankings: South Africa ranks 107 out of 141 in global skills readiness, with 81% of children unable to read for meaning by age 10.
1. Nationwide Petition
BOSA has launched a public petition, now with over 20,000 signatures, demanding the abolition of the 30% pass mark. The petition highlights public dissatisfaction with a system that compromises learners’ futures and perpetuates low standards. Today, these signatures will be delivered electronically to Minister Gwarube.
2. Parliamentary Action
BOSA has written to Speaker of the National Assembly, Thoko Didiza, requesting an urgent parliamentary debate on the state of education. With Parliament set to open in February for the State of the Nation Address (SONA), BOSA insists education reform must be a top priority for 2025.
“Minister Gwarube has the opportunity to chart a new path for education. We demand transparency and real solutions, not ANC platitudes,” said Maimane.
3. Schools Complaints Hotline
To address issues on the ground, BOSA has launched a “Schools Complaints Hotline” (email: education@bosa.org.za). This platform allows parents, teachers, and learners to report challenges such as water and sanitation issues, textbook shortages and infrastructure delays.
All concerns will be compiled and submitted to the Minister of Basic Education and Parliament’s Education Portfolio Committee for action.
4. Parliamentary Questions
BOSA will submit a series of detailed written questions to Minister Gwarube to uncover critical data often concealed, including:
- What is the average mark for each of the following subjects in the NSC examinations over the past five years: Maths, Maths Literacy, Physical Science, Economics, and Accounting
- How many students have sat for the IT exams over the last five years and how many have obtained over 50% and over 60%. What is the department doing to improve these marks.
- What is the status of annual national assessments which the previous minister said would recommence, are they going to be reinstated, and how are they going to be run
- What has been the dropout rate – in real numbers – for students in grade 10 for each of the last five years
Transparency is essential if we are to rebuild excellence and trust in our education system.
Conclusion
BOSA’s vision for education reform is bold and transformative. It includes the establishment of an independent education ombudsman, better salaries for educators, the introduction of a school voucher program, and a nationwide audit of teacher skills.
We believe in prioritizing foundational education, incentivizing learners, and ensuring that every rand of the R300 billion education budget is spent effectively.
BOSA is committed to using every available mechanism to advance the cause of education reform. The party will continue to fight for a system that empowers South Africa’s youth, builds a skilled workforce, and secures the country’s future.
Media Enquiries:
Roger Solomons – BOSA Acting Spokesperson – 072 299 3551