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SACAI Faces Criticism Over Disappointing 2024 Matric Results

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The South African Comprehensive Assessment Institute (SACAI) has come under fire after the release of the 2024 matric results, leaving parents outraged and learners’ academic futures in jeopardy. Many parents have taken to social media to voice concerns about inconsistencies between their children’s performance during the year and their final grades.

Priscilla Shanmugam, a parent whose daughter completed her matric through the University of Cape Town’s (UCT) Online High School, expressed disbelief at the results.

“Her final grades were not consistent with her academic performance throughout the year. This raises serious concerns about the accuracy and fairness of the assessment process,” said Shanmugam.

Her daughter, who had been accepted to study a Bachelor of Commerce in Management Sciences at Stellenbosch University, now faces uncertainty over her admission due to the unexpected drop in marks.

@gcm_4

#UCT OHS is a mess#😓😓😭😭 @Jayde Deparkour @MR.MEYER @Toffee @Mickey @Mr Tapout

♬ Very Sad – Enchan

Parents Demand Accountability

Similar frustrations have been shared by other parents. On social media, Asante Mokhuoa described her niece’s results as “appalling,” citing drastic drops in subjects where she had previously excelled.

“How does a consistent performer with year averages of 80% in physical science and 86% in maths suddenly drop to 25% and 36%, respectively? This is not just an isolated issue—it’s a recurring pattern with SACAI,” Mokhuoa said.

Mokhuoa’s niece, who had already secured a bursary for university, now faces an uncertain future.

Micalla Lucas, another parent, echoed these concerns, stating that her daughter, who studied through a different institution, had also received disappointing results despite consistent hard work throughout the year.

“SACAI needs to sort out this mess. These results are not just numbers; they affect real futures,” said Lucas.

SACAI Responds to Criticism

SACAI CEO Chris Klopper defended the institution’s processes, stating that marks are awarded based on the quality and correctness of answers provided during examinations.

“Candidates and parents are now shooting the messenger with the bad tiding. During the marking process, marks may only be awarded based on the correctness and the quality thereof,” Klopper said.

He added that factors such as the quality of teaching, learners’ preparedness, and study discipline play significant roles in final performance.

“It is much more difficult to perform well as a home schooler or distance learner because success largely depends on self-discipline. In traditional schools, structured lessons and physical teachers keep learners focused,” Klopper explained.

UCT Online High School Investigates

The UCT Online High School confirmed awareness of the complaints and is working closely with SACAI to address the concerns.

“We are conducting our own internal analysis. Each query raised is being reviewed and, where necessary, escalated to SACAI for further feedback. We remain committed to supporting our 2024 matric cohort,” said UCT OHS spokesperson Darryn Lee.

Lee also highlighted the school’s extensive support for learners, including subject-specific boot camps, Mastery sessions, and direct coaching to prepare for exams.

Recourse for Learners

Klopper assured parents that they could request a re-check or re-mark of examination papers through SACAI’s website.

Parents and learners are urged to submit queries or apply for remarks as of January 26 to ensure all concerns are addressed.

Mixed Results

Despite the backlash, SACAI reported a 90% pass rate and highlighted top-performing learners. Among these were students achieving distinctions and an overall mark average exceeding 80%. However, for many, the unexpected results remain a significant concern, impacting their plans for higher education and career aspirations.

The growing discontent has led to calls for increased transparency and an overhaul of assessment processes to ensure fair and accurate grading.

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