THE Independent Examinations Board’s (IEB) 98.47% pass rate marks the highest recorded in the past five years.
The IEB said all candidates also obtained a pass that qualifies them for studies at a tertiary institution at one of three levels:
– 89.37% of the cohort achieved entry to degree study, compared to 88.59% in 2023
– 7.56% qualified for entry to diploma study, compared to 8.31% in 2023.
– 1.53% achieved entry for study at the Higher Certificate level, compared to 1.57% in 2023.
– 0.02% achieved an endorsed certificate.
There were 14 990 full-time and 1314 part-time candidates who wrote the IEB NSC examinations compared to 13 967 full-time candidates and 1213 part-time candidates in 2023.
The Western Cape had 2072 candidates from 30 schools who wrote the exams.
Among the Western Cape schools featured on the Outstanding Achievements and Commendable Achievements list for top achievers was Reddam House College Constantia, St Cyprian's School, Curro Private School Durbanville, Herschel Girls School, among others.
IEB CEO, Confidence Dikgole, said the Class of 2024 stood as a testament to resilience and perseverance, having faced the long-term effects of the Covid-19 pandemic during their formative high school years.
“In Grade 8, amidst the severe lockdown of 2020, they encountered disruptions to foundational learning, adapted to new modes of education, and navigated the psychological impacts of uncertainty and isolation. While these challenges may not have directly affected their Grade 12 year, they undoubtedly shaped their academic journey. Their ability to overcome these obstacles highlights their determination and commitment.”
Reddam House Western Cape students achieved 390 distinctions from 159 students, with 21 placements in the IEB’s Top 1% rankings. Standout achievers include twins Abigail and Kiara Bester from Reddam House Constantia, who each earned eight distinctions while excelling in academics and athletics.
Abigail, with a remarkable 92% average, said: “Next year I will be going to Wingate University in North Carolina, America, where I will study something in a biology or chemistry direction, but haven't chosen a major yet. In the future, I hope to become a professional athlete and compete on the global stage.”
“This year, I'm planning to study and run at a university in America, most likely a degree involving biology and chemistry. After running and competing at a collegiate level in America, I want to run professionally, and hopefully represent South Africa one day,” Kiara said.
Stellenbosch University Emeritus Professor in Education, Michael le Cordeur said while both learners and teachers could be applauded for a job well done, the results highlighted inequality in South African schools.
“These excellent results are thanks to the fact that learners in these schools had access to the necessary resources both online and in school. As a result, private schools were able to absorb the impact of the negative circumstances that our public schools are subjected to.
“The cohort of students who achieved entry to degree study is continuously on the rise. This is very good and the schools and learners need to be complimented for their effort.
“We cannot deny the fact that the success of the IEB matrics was made possible because most teachers still see their task as a calling. Thanks to their hard work and that of their colleagues they can boast a matric pass rate of which the whole country can be proud,” Le Cordeur said.
Cape Times