Matric results: What they said

Has the matric pass rate become a national obsession? Should we doubt the quality of a matric pass? A selection of sound bites on the 2012 matric results.

» “A focus purely on the (matric) pass rate could become a perversion that can impact negatively on the system.” – Basic Education director-general Bobby Soobrayan

» “We are particularly encouraged by the marked improvement of performance in key subjects of maths and science. This vindicates our effort to ensure that maths and science is mainstreamed and receives the necessary attention.” – ANC spokesperson Jackson Mthembu

» “It is fitting that this group of young people – the Born Frees – are the ones who have achieved this remarkable feat (Gauteng achieved the highest pass rate); despite all the much-publicised challenges they faced. Through their efforts, the Class of 2012 has shown what this province and country can do when we all work together.” – Gauteng Premier Nomvula Mokonyane

» “(The fact that only 12% of pupils who enrolled in Grade 1 would eventually qualify for university) raises serious questions about the ability of South Africa’s schools to produce learners who can stay in the system and emerge as successful matriculants.” – DA education spokesperson Annette Lovemore

» “We are very pleased that the pass rate remained stable while the number of candidates grew so significantly.” – Western Cape education MEC Donald Grant on the province’s .1 percentage point pass rate drop

» “We are concerned about the level of schooling in rural areas as rural schools are failing to attract enough competent maths and science teachers.” – National Freedom Party (NFP) president Zanele Msibi

» “The IFPYB congratulates the class of 2012 with caution. On one hand we have a situation of an increase to 73.9% and on the other we have to continue probing the quality of the actual pass,” – IFP Youth Brigade chairperson Mkhuleko Hlengwa

» “We call on the employer to invest in an intensive school leadership training programme targeting school management teams and principals in particular.” – SA Democratic Teachers Union (Sadtu)

» “(Winter and spring schools) should not become the norm. Teachers must be responsible for quality teaching and learning in their class rooms throughout the year.” – National Professional Teachers’ Organisation of SA (Naptosa)

» “Unfortunately, a matric certificate is not really the best preparation for the modern work environment.” – Solidarity

– City Press