Good news for matric pupils!

South Africa's 2024 matriculants will learn their fate in just under two weeks, with the Department of Basic Education (DBE) already offering a lifeline for those who may not have achieved their desired results.

The department is highlighting its Second Chance Matric Programme (SCMP), a matric rewrite programme established in 2016, designed to allow pupils to improve their marks or complete their matric qualification part-time.

Registration for the 2025 SCMP opened in October 2024 and closes on 7 February 2025. The DBE urges pupils to take advantage of this opportunity. The programme aims to improve retention rates, reduce dropout rates, and ensure inclusivity, aligning with the National Development Plan. It provides support to pupils who haven't met the requirements of the National Senior Certificate (NSC) or the extended Senior Certificate (SC).

Registration for SC candidates can be done at the nearest district office or online via e-Services at https://www.eservices.gov.za/. NSC candidates, however, must register at their nearest district office. Required documents include a completed registration form, a copy of their South African ID (or passport for foreign nationals), and a copy of their highest previous qualification.

The DBE detailed the support offered to pupils: “Pupils are supported by face-to-face classes in centres around South Africa, as well as lessons broadcast on TV and radio, and online study material. Targeted subjects include Accounting, Agricultural Science, Business Studies, Economics, English FAL, Geography, History, Mathematics, Mathematical Literacy, Physical Sciences and Life Sciences.”

Meanwhile, a legal battle is brewing. On 7 January, the DBE and the Information Regulator (IR) will face off in court over the publication of matric results in local newspapers. The IR seeks a court order to prevent this publication, citing violations of the Protection of Personal Information Act (Popia). This case will be heard just a week before the official release of the matric results on 14 January. Minister of Basic Education, Siviwe Gwarube, will officially announce the results on 13 January.

AfriForum, a civil rights group supporting the DBE, argues that the IR's enforcement order is invalid and intends to oppose any action against the DBE and the publication of results.

AfriForum’s Head of Cultural Affairs, Alana Bailey, stated: "Matriculants have a right to privacy, but also the right to access their results on public platforms, provided their names are not published. This is an established practice, and the court has already conceded that this is in everyone’s interest.”

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