The Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) notes the release of the National Senior Certificate (NSC) results for the Class of 2022, which consisted of more than 920 000 learners.
The Class of 2022 was the first group of learners to start with the then newly-introduced Grade R, and significantly, it was the largest cohort of learners to date to write NSC examinations. These young people must be commended for their determination and resilience. They experienced the full force of the Covid-19 pandemic during their senior phase of high school, missing out on many hours of schooling, while having to deal with many other challenges imposed by lockdown. There were also the difficulties created by the ever-increasing periods of loadshedding throughout 2022, literally leaving students in the dark.
It is therefore encouraging that the Executive Committee of Umalusi Council concluded “that the examinations were administered largely in accordance with the Regulations … [and that] Council therefore approves the release of the DBE November 2022 National Senior Certificate examinations results.” In addition, “irregularities identified … did not compromise the overall credibility and integrity”.
This ‘seal of approval’ is reassuring, as it indicates that there were no scripts leaked, or large-scale incidents of cheating.
The Class of 2022 achieved a national pass rate of 80.1%, compared to 76.4% in 2021. We would like to extend our congratulations to all learners for this achievement. It is also encouraging to note the 9.2% increase in the pass rate for Quintile 1 to 3 (no fee) schools, with 387 000 learners passing.
We are pleased to observe that there was an increase in the pass rate across all nine provinces. However, special mention must be made of KwaZulu-Natal, who achieved the biggest improvement, up from 76.8% to an 83% pass rate – this, despite the devastating floods in April 2022.
As the IFP, we would like to convey our congratulations to all the learners who achieved their goals and will be continuing their education, or joining the world of work. Importantly, we would also like to encourage those that did not achieve their desired outcomes to stay positive, and to explore the opportunities available for a second chance, to potentially improve their results.
We would further like to acknowledge the critical role of educators and school support staff across the country, as well as the parents, caregivers and guardians who provided support and encouragement to learners on the home front. Invigilators and markers must also be thanked for their important contribution.
Congratulations Class of 2022!
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Contact
Hon. SL Ngcobo, MP
IFP Portfolio Committee Member on Basic Education
082 902 4508