The Department of Education in Mpumalanga last week reminded all schools that report cards may not be withheld under any circumstances.

This reminder follows the provisions of Section 29(12) of the National Protocol on Assessment (Grades R–12), which states that both public and independent schools are prohibited from withholding a learner’s report card for any reason.

A report card is the official instrument through which schools provide parents and guardians with comprehensive feedback on a learner’s academic progress.

It offers a clear, holistic reflection of the learner’s performance across subjects, highlighting both strengths and areas requiring further development.

For this reason, the Mpumalanga MEC for Education, Lindi Masina, urged all schools to ensure that these documents are issued promptly to parents at the end of the school term.

Should any school fail to release a report card, parents are encouraged to report the matter immediately to the nearest circuit office.

Schools were further reminded to use accepted administrative processes to address parental obligations without disadvantaging learners or compromising their right to access their academic records.

Masina called upon schools within the province to ensure that all report cards issued are accurate and error-free.

“Parents have the right to receive a full and accurate account of their children’s performance throughout the year.

“We therefore urge all schools to refrain from withholding learner report cards for any reason,” said Masina.

The Department further congratulated all learners for reaching this point in the academic year.

“To those who may not have passed their grades, we encourage you to remain hopeful, every setback presents an opportunity to try again, and support is always available.”

Parents are urged to support their children, to foster an encouraging and calm environment as their children receive results.

Schools will reopen on Wednesday, January 14.