KwaZulu-Natal’s Class of 2024 achieved a historic 89.5% pass rate in the National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations, a leap from the 86.4% recorded in 2023.
Out of 161 962 candidates, 144 990 passed, re-affirming the province’s status as the largest contributor to the matric exams nationally.
The number of schools achieving a 100% pass rate rose from 246 in 2023 to an impressive 321 in 2024. Additionally, schools performing below 75% decreased from 288 to 182.
For the second consecutive year, the uMkhanyakude District emerged as the top performer with a 92.8% pass rate. All 12 districts achieved over 80%, with notable performances from Ugu (91.7%) and Umlazi (89.8%).
Pupils excelled in various categories, with Bachelor’s degree passes increasing from 72 099 in 2023 to 84 470 in 2024. The province also recorded exceptional performances in languages, including a 100% pass rate in isiXhosa First Additional Language and SeSotho, and 99.9% in isiZulu Home Language.
Special schools also shone brightly, with six out of 11 achieving a 100% pass rate. Institutions like KwaNtintwa, V.N. Naik, and Fulton led the charge, demonstrating the inclusive success of the Class of 2024.
KZN MEC for Education Siphosihle Emmanuel Hlomuka said the Class of 2024 had etched its place in history “as a cohort that rose above unprecedented challenges to achieve remarkable academic success”.
“This group of learners began their high school journey amidst the global turmoil of the Covid-19 pandemic. They adapted to remote learning, navigated disruptions, and faced personal losses. Despite these obstacles, their resilience has shone through, making their triumphs today all the more commendable.
“In addition to the pandemic, KwaZulu-Natal endured natural disasters, including tornadoes and the devastating impacts of climate change. Over 20 schools in the eThekwini Municipality were affected, forcing learners to write their National Senior Certificate (NSC) exams in unfamiliar environments.
“The dedication of educators, principals, and department officials played a pivotal role in ensuring that learners received the support they needed. Despite financial constraints and resource challenges, their unwavering commitment ensured the provision of quality education. The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education’s collaborative efforts with parents, guardians, and community stakeholders created a strong foundation for learners to excel,” said Mr Hlomuka.
He said the quality of the results was indicative of the “sterling work of our district teams and educators as well as the dedication of our learners to their academic work”.
“Our Bachelor’s passes have increased from 72 099 in 2023 to 84 470 in 2024. I must clarify that our aim as the department is to see more of our candidates to get bachelor passes because we want them to be in a better position to further their studies post matric level. While we recorded increased in a number of gateway subjects, as the Department we want to see an improvement in English First Additional Language, Mathematics and all science subjects,” said the MEC.
