President Cyril Ramaphosa has lauded the matric Class of 2024 for their outstanding accomplishments, emphasizing their hard work and the progress made in South Africa’s education sector.

A record 615,429 learners passed the National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations in 2024, achieving an unprecedented national pass rate of 87.3%, up from 82.9% in 2023.

Nearly half of the candidates attained Bachelor passes, and close to 320,000 distinctions were awarded, showcasing the resilience and determination of the nation’s youth.

“These results underscore the development of our most valuable resource—our young people,” President Ramaphosa stated. He noted this achievement reflects the nation’s progress during 30 Years of Freedom and Democracy, breaking the chains of apartheid’s legacy of inequality.

Acknowledging the efforts of learners, educators, parents, and stakeholders in both public and private sectors, Ramaphosa said, “The doors of learning have swung wide open, and we celebrate each generation that successfully walks through them.”

The President urged collaborative efforts to support the Class of 2024, ensuring they seize opportunities and pursue innovative paths as entrepreneurs and creators.

“These achievements should inspire us to address the challenges in education and the economy. We are confident the Class of 2024 will be part of the solutions our nation needs,” he concluded.