Western Cape #ClassOf2023 Achieves Record Matric Pass Rate Despite Challenges

The Western Cape‘s #ClassOf2023 has made remarkable progress in their matriculation, achieving a record pass rate of 81.54% despite numerous challenges faced throughout the year. Over 50,000 candidates successfully passed their exams, with 42.2% qualifying for a bachelor’s pass, granting them access to higher education. This year witnessed the highest number of bachelor’s passes ever recorded in the province, with 26,182 candidates qualifying.

Impressively, the Western Cape achieved the highest pass rate in Mathematics, standing at 75.4%, and in Physical Sciences at 82.2%. These subjects are pivotal for the national and provincial economy, making the improvements even more significant compared to the previous year.

The Western Cape also boasts the second-highest number of distinctions, with 24,982 subject distinctions awarded to the candidates. This outstanding achievement is especially commendable in light of the challenges faced in 2023, including a minibus taxi strike, a learner transport blockade in Khayelitsha, devastating floods, and ongoing loadshedding.

The Grade 10 to 12 retention rate has also increased to 69.3%, indicating that more students are persevering through their final years of high school. Achieving improvements in both the pass rate and retention rate is a challenging feat, highlighting the dedication of both students and educators.

During the live announcement, six exceptional candidates from the Western Cape were recognized by the national minister, including the country’s top candidates and the top candidate with special needs. Melissa Muller from Rhenish Girls’ High School in Stellenbosch emerged as the top candidate in public schools, while Ethan Myers from Herzlia High School in Vredehoek secured the top spot in independent schools.

In addition to this, Melissa Muller also claimed the top position in the Quintile 5 category, while Jared Ryan Benn from Wynberg Boys’ High School in Wynberg achieved the second position. Melissa Muller also excelled in Mathematics, earning the top rank, while Jared Ryan Benn topped the Physical Science category. Amahle Jemane from De La Bat School in Worcester clinched the second-place in South African Sign Language, and Samkelo Gumada and Nizibone Victor Mapolisa from Athlone School for the Blind in Bellville secured the first and third positions, respectively, in the Special Needs Education category.

The Western Cape Government emphasizes the importance of recognizing and improving access to quality education for learners with special needs. These exceptional students’ achievements serve as an inspiration and a testament to their determination.

The Western Cape Government extends its congratulations to the #ClassOf2023 for their outstanding results and recognizes the hard work and support provided by parents and teachers. As the #ClassOf2024 prepares to embark on their matric journey, they are encouraged to follow the example set by their predecessors and embrace the challenges with dedication. The Western Cape Government pledges its continued support to ensure that every learner has a bright future in the province.

Candidates can collect their results from their schools starting at 11:00 AM tomorrow, 19 January 2024. The results will also be available on the WCED website.