Support the work of the FW de Klerk Foundation

For more information regarding donations contact info@fwdeklerk.org or scan the QR code below

FW DE KLERK FOUNDATION CONGRATULATES THE CLASS OF 2024 ON HISTORIC MATRIC RESULTS

Issued by Christo van der Rheede on behalf of the FW de Klerk Foundation on 13/01/2025

 

The FW de Klerk Foundation extends its heartfelt congratulations to the Class of 2024 for their outstanding achievement in the National Senior Certificate (“NSC”) examinations. This year marks a historic milestone, as South Africa celebrates the highest-ever matric pass rate in the history of the country—an exceptional 87,3%, up from 82,9% in 2023.

The performance of the Class of 2024 is a testament to the resilience, dedication and hard work of learners, educators and families across South Africa. More than 615,000 learners passed their matric exams, with KwaZulu-Natal leading the way with 84,470 Bachelor passes, followed by Gauteng and the Eastern Cape. The impressive number of distinctions—319,651 in total—reflects a significant improvement, with increases in key subjects like Mathematics.

This historic achievement is not only a reflection of the learners’ efforts, but also of the transformative power of education in South Africa. As Minister of Basic Education, Siviwe Gwarube, mentioned, 67% of the Bachelor passes came from Quintile 1 to 3 schools, which are often located in poorer communities. This growth signals the success of initiatives aimed at providing educational support to disadvantaged areas, reinforcing that every child has the potential to excel, regardless of their background.

Christo van der Rheede, Executive Director of the FW de Klerk Foundation, said, “The results of the Class of 2024 show that South Africa’s youth are stepping up in unprecedented ways. We are seeing an education system that is maturing and delivering greater opportunities. As the Minister noted, this year’s results reflect a transformation that is not just about passing exams, but about creating the possibility of a brighter future for many.”

Ismail Joosub, Manager of Constitutional Advancement at the Foundation, added, “This achievement is a victory for the entire nation. It highlights the power of collaboration between learners, teachers and parents in overcoming challenges. Our focus must now shift to ensuring that this success continues and that we provide the necessary support to sustain high-quality education for all South Africans.

As we celebrate this remarkable accomplishment, the Foundation reaffirms its commitment to supporting the continued development of South Africa’s education system, ensuring that future generations are equipped to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Just as the protea flower blossoms brighter after enduring adversity, the Class of 2024 stands as a symbol of resilience and renewal in our nation.

The FW de Klerk Foundation congratulates the Class of 2024 and looks forward to their continued success in all their future endeavours.

The FW de Klerk Foundation Annual Conference

The FW de Klerk Foundation Annual Conference – hosted in conjunction with the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung – took place on 31 January 2025. The theme of this year’s conference is: “South Africa’s Position in the World Today”.
 

 Esteemed speakers include Ambassador Andreas Peschke (Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany); Magda Wierzycka (CEO of Sygnia); Dr Harlan Cloete (Local Governance and Public Leadership – Research Fellow) and Johan “Rassie” Erasmus (Springbok Coach).