Schools are urged to ensure all learners receive their report cards on or before the December holidays, rather than withholding them as part of intensifying the retrieval process of learning material such as textbooks and tablets.

The spokesperson of the Mpumalanga Department of Education (DoE), Gerald Sambo, said this directive stems from Section 29 (12) of the National Protocol on Assessments for grades R to 12, which prohibits both public and private schools from withholding report cards for any reason.

“A report card is the sole official document providing feedback to parents on learners’ performance. Therefore, schools are advised to distribute them promptly when schools close. The report card should present a comprehensive overview of a learner’s performance across various subjects, highlighting their strengths and cognitive developmental needs,” he said.

Sambo added that if a school withholds a report card for any reason, parents should immediately report the matter to the nearest circuit office.

He also said that while learners are implored to return learning material as soon as they complete their examinations, schools should also employ other standard procedures to ensure they fulfil their obligations without disadvantaging them.

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The Mpumalanga MEC for education, Lindi Masina, emphasised the importance of returning all learning support material supplied to learners by schools. She stated that these resources are provided to facilitate a smoother and more enjoyable learning journey and they should not deny future generations the same educational opportunities.

Masina also expressed her gratitude to all learners for their positive attitude throughout the examination period.

“My heart goes out to all education stakeholders who have walked with us throughout the year and helped ensure quality education delivery in our beloved province,” she said.