- The Eastern Cape education department says it is ready as 122,030 pupils write their final National Senior Certificate exams.
- MEC Fundile Gade hopes for a record-breaking year after the province achieved an 84.98% matric pass rate in 2024.
More than 122,000 pupils across the Eastern Cape are writing their final matric exams this week, and the education department says it’s ready for anything.
The province has 108,311 full-time and 13,719 part-time candidates sitting for the National Senior Certificate exams. Learners are writing in public and private schools, special schools and correctional centres.
Education MEC Fundile Gade said he believes the class of 2025 can make history.
“We set our sights on 87% and above. Our third-quarter performance sits at 84%, and our results usually reflect that, so it’s our benchmark,” he said.
In 2024, the Eastern Cape achieved an 84.98% pass rate, up from 81.4% in 2023. A total of 45,662 pupils earned a bachelor’s pass and 36,640 distinctions were recorded.
Gade said the province is pushing for even better results this time. “We’re not taking our foot off the pedal. This is our moment to rise even higher.”
Department spokesperson Malibongwe Mtima reminded pupils to look after their health during the exams.
“This is the final lap. Rest, eat properly in the morning, and stay focused. Parents must also give full support,” he said.
The department has set up 1,086 exam centres with 967 trained chief invigilators, 119 district officials and 10 marking centres.
Security is tight, with police guarding the transport and storage of exam papers. “State bakkies deliver materials in the early hours and collect scripts late at night,” the department said.
Pictured above: A classroom.
Image source: Pexels
