The Department of Basic Education (DBE) has indicated that there has been an increase in the number of learners taking Information Technology (IT) as a school subject. This is evidenced by the growing number of learners passing IT in Grade 12.
According to the DBE, the number of learners who sat for the IT matric exam increased between 2020 and 2024, with only 2021 being the exception.
In 2020, a total of 3,779 learners wrote the exam, with a dip to 3,051 in 2021. However, participation recovered in subsequent years, reaching 4,544 in 2022, 4,654 in 2023, and slightly decreasing to 4,510 in 2024.
The DBE also explained that there have been fluctuations in the pass marks achieved by learners during this time.
In 2020, 2,573 learners achieved a pass mark above 50%, with 2,029 achieving marks over 60%. The following year saw a decline, with 2,023 learners passing the 50% mark and only 1,550 scoring above 60%. Marks increased again in 2022 and 2023. In 2022, 2,931 learners scored above 50% and 2,277 above 60%. These figures climbed further in 2023 to 3,290 and 2,646, respectively.
However, performance dipped slightly again in 2024. A total of 2,891 learners scored above 50%, while 2,476 achieved marks over 60%.
Several strategies are being implemented by the DBE to improve the IT pass rate in South Africa. This includes enhancing curriculum support and teacher training.
The department conducts workshops and professional development programmes aimed at equipping teachers with improved subject knowledge and teaching methods.
The DBE has also prioritised increasing learner support by facilitating extra classes and weekend programmes to assist learners requiring additional help.
Work is also taking place to improve school IT laboratories and upgrade existing facilities. This includes providing access to modern hardware and updated software to ensure an improved learning environment.
Collaborations with universities and the private sector aim to expose learners to industry best practices. Additionally, the DBE wants to ensure learners can access work-based learning opportunities and mentorship programmes.
The DBE states that regular assessment and performance monitoring of IT learners allow the department to monitor performance and introduce early intervention strategies for learners struggling with the subject.
