The Free State has attained a 88.2% pass rate for the class of 2016. Makgoe says the department has aimed to improve from the previous year’s 81.6%. 

Makgoe says being number one in the country calls for more work from the department, teachers and the learners themselves. He says the province is now aiming for a 95 percent pass rate for the class of 2017.

“If we pull resources, if we work together, we can overcome many of our problems. I was just aiming for a 90%, I did not know that they will give me 93,2%. Despite all the difficult conditions and problems we faced in terms of a lack of resources experienced in the province. It has been proven that we can actually focus and still achieve what needs to be achieved.”

The 93,2% pass rate excludes the results of progressed learners.

Makgoe says schools in impoverished communities have also improved. To ensure that the class of 2016 attains the top achiever’s position Makgoe says subject specialists were sent to various schools. 

He says the primary goal is to improve the status quo.

Katleho Morapela/OFM News