How 'Covid pupils' aced it

EXCELLENT RESULTS: TEAMWORK AND HARD WORK PAYS OFF IN THE END, SAY TOP ACHIEVERS

- Faizel Patel & Thando Nondywana

The matric class of 2024 had to overcome tremendous challenges, including burnout and the Covid pandemic, to achieve historic results.

Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube on Monday announced that the class of 2024 achieved an 87.3% pass rate, the country's highest since the dawn of democracy.

The pass rate increased by 4.4% from 82.9% in 2023 - the matric cohort also achieved the most bachelor passes and distinctions.

The Citizen spoke to some matriculants and with sighs of relief, they said they were glad that the wait was finally over.

Forte Secondary School in Dobsonville, Soweto, achieved 100% matric pass rate for the first time in its history. The school attributed this milestone to a culture of discipline, teamwork and support from parents and teachers.

Principal Mukosi Mudhavi described the achievement as a highlight moment.

"It's the only digit we've never attained. This is our first time, which is why we're over the moon and appreciative of the support from parents, the department, and the teachers," he said.

Out of the 291 pupils who wrote their exams, 215 achieved bachelor passes. Mudhavi emphasised that the success was rooted in teamwork among teachers, support from parents, and the dedication of pupils.

"We instil discipline. They trust that what we say will guide them on a good path. We also have committed teachers who know their subjects well," he said.