The Council congratulates the class of 2019 on the national pass rate of 81.3%, which is an improvement of 3.1% compared to the 2018 results. This is a historic achievement for the country, which is above the 80% mark.
The Department of Basic Education is commended for its initiatives to improve teaching and learning in the public education system, such as its focus on equity; improved access to schooling; Learners with Special Education Needs (LSEN) and the inclusion of progressed learners in the number of learners enrolled for 2019.
With the support of all stakeholders in education, the Department is making progress in realising the objectives as set out in the National Development Plan, particularly in terms of early childhood development and the directive to maintain a retention rate of 90% and allow for an increase in the number of learners entering vocational and occupational pathways.
The Department is also applauded for improvement in provincial results, particularly in the Eastern Cape, which recorded 76.5%, this is an increase of 5.9% from 2018 and also the biggest improvement in the country.
The teacher unions, together with their members, the teachers of our nation are praised for the instrumental role that they play in ensuring quality learning and teaching in our classrooms and the impressive national results for 2019.
“… may this strand of distinction precipitate the start of a lifelong journey of achievement,
Inspired by the heartfelt yearning of patrons for a brighter, educated nation.”
To the class of 2019, may you continue to strive for excellence and exhibit the same dedication displayed during the 13 years of foundation, primary and secondary learning, in your working lives.
We wish you well.
Issued by the General Secretary on behalf of the Executive Committee of the ELRC.
