The matric class of 2024 has achieved a resounding success, with provisional results demonstrating a significant improvement across all provinces. This year, every province surpassed the 84% pass mark, a testament to the dedication and hard work of both learners and educators.
The Free State emerged as the top-performing province with a remarkable 91.0% pass rate, a commendable increase from 89.0% in 2023. Following closely behind, KwaZulu-Natal secured second place with an impressive 89.5% pass rate, marking a substantial 3.2% improvement. Gauteng secured the third position, achieving an 88.4% pass rate, a significant increase from 85.4% in the previous year.
The North-West province demonstrated a significant leap in performance, securing the fourth position with an 87.5% pass rate, a remarkable 5.9% increase from 2023. The Western Cape followed closely, achieving a 5% improvement with an 86.6% pass rate.
Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and the Eastern Cape all achieved a rounded-off pass rate of 85%, with Limpopo leading at 85.01%, followed by Mpumalanga at 84.99%, and the Eastern Cape at 84.98%. These provinces also demonstrated significant improvements, with Limpopo and Mpumalanga achieving increases of 5.5% and 8%, respectively, while the Eastern Cape recorded a 3.6% improvement.
The Northern Cape, with an 84.2% pass rate, achieved the highest year-on-year improvement, surging by an impressive 8.3%.
No-fee schools also demonstrated significant progress, improving their pass rate from 81% in 2023 to 85.8% in 2024. This remarkable achievement underscores the continuous maturation and progress of the South African education system.
“These outstanding results are a testament to the dedication and hard work of learners, teachers, parents, and the entire education sector. Congratulations to the matric class of 2024 on their remarkable achievements concluded the Minister of Education Siviwe Gwarube”.