Addressing the nation from Johannesburg, Gwarube highlighted a historic achievement as the national pass rate climbed to a record 88%, an increase from the previous year’s 87.03%. With a pass rate of 89.33%, the Free State had to surrender its top spot in the 2024 exams to KwaZulu-Natal’s 90.6%.

North West came fourth with 88.49% and the Northern Cape’s 87.79% earned it the title of most improved province.

More than 656,000 learners passed their examinations. This success was notably broad-based, as all 75 education districts across the country achieved a pass rate of at least 80% for the first time.

Free State MEC for education Dr Mamiki Maboya at the release event in Johannesburg. Photo: Free State department of education

The results further revealed a breakthrough in higher education readiness, with the number of bachelor passes increasing by 8,700 to reach a total of 345,000, ensuring more South African youth have access to university-level studies than ever before.

“We are not in the business of quick wins or grabbing headlines, we’re in the business of transforming lives and ensuring that South African children have their best future ahead of them,” said Gwarube.

She noted while foundational challenges in gateway subjects like mathematics persist, the sustained growth in no-fee school performance proves that poverty is not a destiny for South African children.

She emphasised the department is moving toward a path of deep, evidence-based reform, prioritising early childhood development and reading for meaning, reiterating the credibility of these results, verified by Umalusi, serves as a powerful instrument for social cohesion and economic growth.

“Access without quality is not equity, and progression without mastery is not opportunity,” Gwarube concluded.

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OFM News/Refilwe Bekane cvs