On Wednesday the Congress of the People sent a press release out, congratulating the Class of 2013 on making sure that the Mpumalanga matric results continue to improve.
They applauded the 7,6% increase in the pass rate, even if pupils did not meet the 80% target. COPE was more impressed by pupils’ commitment to schooling for twelve years, than their performance.
The organisation urged pupils that did not achieve the Bachelor entrants 30% pass mark to go back to school. They said that pupils should “make sure that they pull up their socks in order for them to also continue empowering themselves through education.”
COPE acknowledged that pupils who received Bachelor entry may struggle to be accepted to tertiary institutions due to the point system used. They said that it may not be possible for these pupils to enter the field of study they want to, because they received 50% on only four of their subjects.
COPE stressed that, in-between the celebrations, the Minister of Basic Education should take note of challenges that learners face in tertiary institutions. These difficulties should be an indication that the 30% pass mark needs to be improved. This should be done for the sake of pupils who may end up not being able to study for the career they are passionate about.
COPE concluded their congratulations by wishing the Class of 2013 all the best in furthering their education.
