Chairperson, the ACDP welcomes this very important debate on Dr Maimane’s resolution to end the 30 per cent matric pass mark and raise standards in basic education. Our learners must be able to read with meaning and confidence from the youngest age possible, which is not the case at present. For too long, South Africa has tolerated failure disguised as success. Our metric pass mark—be it 30 per cent or 40 per cent—does not prepare learners for tertiary education or the workplace. It is a false comfort that masks systemic failure. As the Department of Basic Education itself acknowledged, “Any potential changes to pass requirements or curriculum structure must be evidence based, internationally benchmarked, and aligned with South Africa’s developmental needs”.
The ACDP has always argued that education must be a ladder out of poverty, not a trapdoor into unemployment. Public debate has intensified, with the 30 per cent threshold called “a meagre pass mark that hurts our pupils”. Social media has echoed this frustration, demanding decisive action.
Cambridge O’Levels still run internationally, have long success in countries such as Singapore, Mauritius, Pakistan and Zimbabwe. As academic Martin Prew observed, Zimbabwe’s school system has outperformed South Africa’s despite spending far less per learner amidst a decade of economic chaos. If our General Education and Training Certificate (GETC) were upgraded to carry more esteem in the labour market, young people leaving school at Grade 9 would have genuine pathways into apprenticeships, entry-level jobs and vocational training, reducing the scourge of youth unemployment while restoring dignity to non-academic learners, ensuring that their efforts are recognised rather than dismissed as inadequate.”
The ACDP supports this resolution and thanks Mr Maimane for it. We call on this House to embrace a culture of achievement, especially in maths and science, where every learner reaches their God-given potential, and education becomes the cornerstone of national renewal.
Lastly, raising standards, with proper support for teachers and learners, will send a clear message to the public and internationally that South Africa values education.
I thank you honourable Chairperson.
