The Independent Examinations Board (IEB) has unveiled the matric results for the class of 2023, with an overall pass rate of 98.46% in the National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations.
This achievement marks a slight improvement from the 2022 pass rate of 98.4%. The results encompass three distinct levels: 88.59% attained a degree pass, 8.31% secured a diploma pass, and 1.57% received a higher certificate pass.
The IEB revealed that there was a notable increase in the number of candidates with 15,186 learners participating in the IEB exams, surpassing the 2022 figure of 13,525. This increase is attributed to 17 new schools, consisting of 960 candidates, participating in the IEB for the first time in 2023.
Umalusi, the quality and assurance body, assessed the 2023 IEB NSC examinations, ensuring adherence to national standards and upholding the integrity of the education system. The Executive Committee (EXCO) of Umalusi approved the release of the results, confirming that the examinations were administered in accordance with regulations governing the NSC examinations.
In congratulating the matric class of 2023, the IEB acknowledged the dedication and support of teachers, parents, guardians, and all those who contributed to the students' success.
The board emphasised that despite the challenges faced by the class of 2023, their performance underscores the significance of diligence, persistence, and perseverance in achieving success.
The IEB’s Confidence Dikgole says despite challenges faced by learners including the disruption of learning due to the Covid-19 pandemic, they were well placed to succeed in the 2024 matric exams.
Dikgole encouraged learners to pursue further studies after completing their matric qualification. They added that there are several options available to learners and not all of them involve a university degree.
There are many educational routes - not all of them necessarily need to lead to a university degree - that release their talents and their enthusiasm to be the very best they can be in a field that has captivated their interest.
The IEB extended encouragement to those who did not succeed, emphasising the availability of alternative avenues and options to pursue their educational journey.
The IEB also issued reminders to candidates about the closing date for remarking applications on 1 February 2024, with the results of remarks set to be released on 1 March 2024. Learners qualifying for the May/June examination matric rewrites have until 15 March 2024 to enrol.
