Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga applauded the class of 2023 for achieving great results despite the many challenges. She said they were at the eye of the Covid storm and at the centre of loadshedding but what worked this year was the support they received.

Motshekga was speaking during the announcement of the matric results at an event that held at Fairlands in Randburg on Thursday evening.

Speaking during the event, Motshekga said that she was impressed by the strides made by the class of 2023..

"Our nation is proud of the class of 2023 for achieving 82.9% . The certificates enable learners to access various opportunities in higher education. In the past 30 years we have seen progress in the basic education sector. The quality of learning outcomes has shown a consistent improvement. 

Bachelor passes have tripled since 2008. Challenges remain and we are committed to confronting them head on. This class was indeed unique," she said.

Motshekga further advised those who didn?t make it to re-register and enrol again for their matric.

Motshekga said the Free State came first with a pass rate of 89%, followed by the KwaZulu Natal with 86,4 %, Gauteng 85.4%, Western Cape 81,5%, N/orth West 81,6%Eastern Cape 81.4%, Limpopo 79,5%, Mpumalanga 77% and Northern Cape with 75,8%.

Basic Education Deputy Minister Reginah Mhaule gave motivational words to those learners who did not make it. 

"We have triumphed against the gloom and doom that engulfed us during the Covid-19 pandemic. For those who didn?t make.it, don?t despair. It?s not the end of the world, there?s a second chance. You are never too old to achieve your goals," she said.

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