The Department of Basic Education (DBE) is overseeing the 2024 National Senior Certificate (NSC) exams, which began on October 21st. A total of 732,448 full-time and 136,195 part-time candidates are registered to sit for these exams.
The exam season has brought attention to the current 30% pass mark, prompting questions from Build One South Africa (BOSA) Member of Parliament, Nobuntu Webster. She asked Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube in Parliament whether the matric pass mark should be raised from 30% to 50%.
Minister Gwarube responded that there are no immediate plans to increase the pass mark to 50%. She emphasised the importance of making careful, evidence-based decisions and noted that any changes would require thorough consideration.
Since assuming her role in June 2024, Minister Gwarube has been focused on understanding the challenges within the Basic Education sector. She has been consulting with provincial education leaders, management teams, and other stakeholders to gain firsthand insights.
Additionally, the Minister announced plans to establish an advisory council. This council will review the curriculum, recommend improvements, and benchmark South Africa’s education system against international standards.
The 2024 Matric results will be announced by Minister Gwarube on 15 January 2025, and will be available at exam centres the following day, 16 January 2025.
