Matric pass goal draws mixed reactions from retired teacher and pupils

AS THE KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education sets its sights on an ambitious 95% matric pass rate for the Class of 2025, reactions from the education community are varied, with warnings of rising pressures in the system.

While the department has rolled out revision programs and additional learning resources to support this target, concerns remain over the human cost of pushing performance.

Kumseela Naidoo, who retired earlier this year after years of teaching Drama at Eastbury Secondary in Phoenix, shared some insights into how targets like these affect classroom dynamics.

“There is great pressure on teachers to ensure pupils excel despite the particular circumstances and challenges schools face.

“The pressure definitely changes the focus of teaching. As a teacher, you are more goal-driven. Great emphasis is placed on results, to the extent that you focus on a particular methodology proven to improve marks, rather than taking pupils on a journey of understanding.”

Naidoo described the loss of creativity in subjects like drama, where joy and exploration had been replaced by performance-based teaching.

“In drama in particular, much of the joy was sapped out of the curriculum in favour of improving results.”

She highlighted the extensive efforts teachers are making, from remedial classes and holiday extensions to self-study guides and last-minute revision materials.

“The pressure pupils and teachers are put under is extreme. The real focus of extending the pupil and improving their understanding is lost.”

Despite this, Naidoo acknowledged that improved results can open doors to tertiary education, though often at a personal cost to teachers.

“Teachers in public schools are working with large numbers of pupils with varied abilities, limited resources, lack of interest and drive, and untold pressure, often resulting in fatigue, low morale, and burnout,” said Naidoo. 

She said, while teachers faced burnout, pupils were navigating their own pressures under the weight of expectation, educational success cannot be measured by statistics alone.

“When we lose sight of the pupil’s understanding and well-being in favour of pass rates, we risk sacrificing the very purpose of education,” said Naidoo. 

Alexis Jadeen Sokalingam, 18, of Earlington Secondary School in Phoenix, wants to study food science and technology at the University of the Witwatersrand next year. She’s confident, but said the intensity of the matric year had taken its toll on her.

“The pressure is definitely there, especially with the expectations and goal to further improve our pass rate for 2025. Although the pressure can be overwhelming, I try to focus on individualizing my goals and contributing in my own way.”

She credited both her school and the department for playing a significant role in helping pupils prepare.

“The teachers of Earlington Secondary and throughout Phoenix have consistently dedicated their time, effort, and passion to helping pupils achieve their full potential. The department of education has also provided us with valuable revision resources,” said Sokalingam. 

Aaisha Kadir, 17, of Orient Islamic, is preparing to study pharmacy at the University of KwaZulu-Natal. While she too acknowledged the pressures, her approach is faith-driven and grounded.

“There definitely is some pressure, especially knowing that the department aims to raise the overall pass rate to 95%. But I try not to let it overwhelm me. Instead, I use it as motivation. At the end of the day, I remind myself that effort is in our hands, but success is ultimately from Allah.”

Kadir also applauded the support from her teachers and the department but suggested more help for struggling pupils could improve the system further.

“There is always room for growth, like offering more individual support to pupils,” she added.

Mohammed Sayfullah Khan, 17, also from Orient Islamic, echoed similar sentiments.

Set to pursue a bachelor of commerce degree at Varsity College, he believes his school journey prepared him well for his final exams, despite the challenges.

“It has been a tough year, but with the support from our teachers, the resources from the department, and the effort we have put in as pupils, I believe we are equipped to face finals with focus and faith. It is not just about passing, it is about proving to ourselves how far we have come and making our dreams become a reality,” said Khan. 

THE POST