MEC Masina Commits to Achieving a 91% Pass Rate Across All Grades

Tabling the 2026/27 Policy and Budget Speech, the MEC for Education, Lindi Masina, reaffirmed the Department's commitment to improving learner outcomes and raising educational standards across the province.

"Improving learner performance remains at the heart of our mandate. Our target is to achieve a 91% pass rate across all grades, while strengthening performance in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) subjects."

The MEC noted that this ambitious target is built on the strong foundation laid by the Class of 2025, which achieved an impressive 86.55% pass rate in the National Senior Certificate examinations.

"The Class of 2025 exceeded expectations and demonstrated the resilience, determination and potential of our learners, educators and school communities.

Their achievement affirms that sustained investment and focused support can yield remarkable results."

To accelerate improvement, the Department has implemented the 2026 Learner Improvement Plan, which classifies any school performing below 80% as underperforming and requiring targeted intervention and support.

In support of this goal, the Department has allocated R60.7 million towards programmes aimed at improving learner performance, enhancing teaching and learning, and ensuring that every learner has an opportunity to succeed.

We are determined to build an education system that delivers excellence, closes performance gaps and equips our learners with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

Together, we will raise achievement levels and move closer to our vision of quality education for all."