Statement by Thandi Nontenja, Chief Whip of the UDM in the National Assembly

The United Democratic Movement (UDM) extends its congratulations to the Class of 2024 for their exceptional achievements in the National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations. With an 87.3% pass rate and 47.8% of learners qualifying for bachelor passes, the highest percentage in recent history, this is a significant accomplishment. These results are a testament to the hard work and resilience of our learners and educators who continue to excel despite an education system that remains riddled with challenges. To those who did not achieve their desired results, we encourage them to persevere and dedicate themselves to their studies in 2025.

The UDM also believes that more needs to be done to ensure that we secure even greater numbers of Bachelor passes in our public education system. Achieving these outcomes is not simply a matter of celebrating figures; it speaks to the quality of education and the preparedness of our youth for the future. More learners must be equipped to pursue higher education and develop lifelong skills that will empower them to excel in their chosen careers. It is deeply concerning that many matriculants who are not pursuing further education will be entering an extremely challenging job market. Unfortunately, they are likely to face significant difficulties in securing employment in the current economic climate.

The UDM’s education policies are centred on ensuring that no learner is left behind, regardless of their background. Learners in rural and township areas remain marginalised, facing barriers such as inadequate infrastructure, a lack of resources, unresolved scholar transport issues, and insufficient oversight in schools. The chronic shortage of educators further compounds the problem, leaving many children without the necessary support to achieve their full potential.

The Eastern Cape, one of the country’s most unequal provinces in terms of education for example, highlights these ongoing failures. In 2022, the province forfeited R205 million allocated for school development, a shocking waste of resources that could have been invested in the education of learners already at a disadvantage in rural areas and townships.

The stark contrast in performance between NSC candidates and those writing exams administered by the Independent Examinations Board (IEB) further highlights the inequalities in our education system. While the Class of 2024 IEB matriculants recorded a staggering 89% Bachelor’s pass rate; only 47.8% of candidates qualified for admission to bachelor’s degree studies within the NSC group. This gap underscores the urgent need to address systemic inequities across the board.

By closing the gap between affluent and disadvantaged schools, we can drive meaningful economic progress. Learners in underprivileged areas have already proven that, with the right support, they can excel. When we invest in their success, we are not just improving their individual prospects; we are contributing to a stronger economy by reducing unemployment, fostering job creation, and decreasing dependency on government support.

The UDM believes that a comprehensive overhaul of our education system is urgently needed. This includes a focus on curriculum development that is relevant, engaging, and prepares learners for the challenges of the modern world. We must also establish a spirit of excellence that holds both learners and educators to high standards of achievement and accountability. If we are serious about building a nation that is economically prosperous and socially just, we must ensure that every learner has access to an education that equips them for success.

Let the achievements of the Class of 2024 serve as a reminder of what is possible when determination and support align. Now is the time for us to double down on our commitment to education and secure the future of all South African learners.