By: Thandazo Jafta, District Manager, Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal
The release of the 2024 matric results brought immense joy and pride, showcasing the remarkable achievements of each IkamvaYouth branch. These results reflect the hard work, dedication, and commitment of learners, volunteers, and staff involved in the IkamvaYouth journey. The collective celebration of these successes highlights the power of collaboration and resilience.
The KwaZulu-Natal and Eastern Cape region’s Class of 2024 achieved an impressive overall pass rate of 91%, with an exceptional 86% of learners qualifying for tertiary education. These outcomes underscore the effectiveness of the IkamvaYouth model and demonstrate what can be accomplished through determination and focused effort.
Our Chesterville branch delivered exceptional results, boasting a 97% pass rate, with an impressive 97% of learners qualifying for tertiary education. Even more remarkable, 87% of learners achieved Bachelor passes, showcasing the branch’s unwavering commitment to addressing academic needs and promoting excellence.
These results mark a significant milestone, with an 18% increase in Bachelor passes compared to the previous year, reflecting the branch’s dedication to continuous improvement. Among the standout achievements, Bongani, the branch’s top learner, earned an astounding six distinctions. Here’s what he had to say about his journey:
“I am excited to have passed my matric in 2024, even though I knew I was going to pass, I was anxious about my results. My plan now is to pursue a degree in computer science at Wits University. I’m interested in coding. I believe that with my interest in Maths, I’ll be able to cope with the work that is required. I joined IkamvaYouth in 2020 and the branch and tutors have contributed significantly to my achievements. What was most helpful about IkamvaYouth is the consistency of the support given by the staff and tutors and the 24-hour availability of tutors on the WhatsApp group.”
Our Umlazi branch celebrated a historic milestone in 2024, achieving its highest pass rate to date at 90%—a remarkable 9% improvement from the previous year. Of these learners, 68% qualified for tertiary education, including 45% achieving Bachelor passes and 23% earning Diploma passes.
This incredible accomplishment speaks to the power of perseverance and community support in overcoming environmental challenges to create brighter futures. The Umlazi branch continues to serve as a beacon of hope for countless young people within the community. Reflecting on this success, the Branch Assistant shared their thoughts on the 2024 results:
“To the Matric Class of 2024, a massive congratulations on the historic 90% pass rate! Your tireless efforts, unwavering perseverance, and unrelenting passion have paid off in the most spectacular way! This achievement is more than just a milestone – it’s a launching pad for your future. It opens doors to new opportunities, further study, and a world of possibilities. Embrace this moment, celebrate your success, and know that you have the power to create the life you desire!”
In the Eastern Cape, our Joza branch demonstrated excellence once again, achieving an impressive 88% pass rate, with 85% of learners qualifying for tertiary education. This success reflects the branch’s dedication to academic achievement and empowering learners, even within a community facing significant challenges that impact young people. The learners achieved a total of 40 distinctions.
“The 2024 matric results bear testament to the collaborative efforts of IkamvaYouth staff and tutors, a lot happens behind the scenes which only gets to be seen through our results. It was good to see the improvement from diploma passes to more bachelor passes which will help them get access to tertiary education. Congratulations to the class of 2024, they sure have done well against all odds” – Nixon Davies (Mathematics & Physics Tutor)
The exceptional achievements of the KZN and EC region’s Class of 2024 stand as a testament to the transformative power of education. These results inspire hope for the future, proving that with unwavering effort and support, young people can overcome obstacles and unlock their full potential.
Lloyd Lungu