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.
By Nicola-Ann Jukes, Business Development Manager
Tuesday was an exciting day for us at IkamvaYouth. It was Matric Day for the class of 2024. Emotions ran high as our matric learners returned to the IkamvaYouth branches, which had been a home away from home for many learners, to share their results.
Nationally, the Department of Basic Education saw an increase in the national matric passes, with 87.3% of learners passing matric (up from 82.9% in 2023). The highest national pass rate in the history of our country. On a similar note the number of bachelor passes also increased by 6.9 percentage points, to 47.8%. The IkamvaYouth class of 2024 achieved a remarkable 93% pass rate, defying the odds amidst a challenging educational landscape. Beyond passing matric, we prioritise quality passes. We are proud that 63% achieved a bachelor pass and 22% achieved a diploma pass (85% tertiary eligibility passes), opening doors to higher education. Our dedicated branch staff and volunteers will continue to provide support to ensure a smooth transition for our learners into their chosen paths. We will report on our placement rate later on in the year. 
Regional Highlights: Celebrating Excellence Across the Board
- Gauteng and North West: There are 6 IkamvaYouth branches in GP and NW. The IkamvaYouth Gauteng region achieved a phenomenal 94% pass rate with 85% being eligible for tertiary education, with 62% of these passes being bachelor passes. The top performing branch in this region was the Diepsloot Branch which achieved a 98% pass rate, with 97% of learners achieving passes that allow for tertiary eligibility. 86% of the learners at the Diepsloot Branch achieved bachelor passes. The IkamvaYouth North West region achieved a phenomenal 93% pass rate with 75% of learners being eligible for tertiary education ( 47% bachelor passes).
- Western Cape: The birthplace of IkamvaYouth, with 6 branches in this region. This region achieved a 93% pass rate, 86% of learners being eligible for tertiary education, with 68% of these passes being bachelor passes. The top performing branch in this region was the Gugulethu Branch which achieved a 97% pass rate, with 93% of learners achieving passes that allow for tertiary eligibility, (78% bachelor passes).
- KwaZulu-Natal/Eastern Cape: This region consists of three branches. The IkamvaYouth KwaZulu-Natal branches achieved an impressive 94% pass rate, with 88% of learners being eligible for tertiary education, with 69% of these passes being bachelor passes. The top performing branch in this region was the Chesterville Branch which achieved a 97% pass rate, with 97% of learners achieving passes that allow for tertiary eligibility (87% bachelor passes). The Joza branch (Eastern Cape) achieved a 88% pass rate and 84% of learners being eligible for tertiary education, with 58% of these passes being bachelor passes.
These results are not a one-time feat. We’ve witnessed a steady achievement in our programme’s success since inception. We are constantly refining our model to ensure our learners receive the best possible support.
A heartfelt thank you to our dedicated volunteer tutors, many of whom are balancing studies or jobs with their commitment to our learners. We would also like to extend our thanks to our donors and supporters. Without your support and donations we would not be able to reach learners in need. We are extremely grateful to each and every one of you.
“I joined the IkamvaYouth programme in 2022 while in grade 10. I found the tutoring sessions and career guidance very helpful, because of Ikamva’s help, I passed matric with a bachelor’s pass and received 3 distinctions. I also plan on going to university next year”. – Wana Thulisiwe, IkamvaYouth 2024 Matriculant, Kuyasa Branch
“Joining IkamvaYouth meant that I became part of a family and Interacted with other tutors who are equally passionate about making a difference. As a tutor, I get to touch the lives of learners from disadvantaged communities, become a role model, inspiring them to dream big and pursue their goals. One of which is passing matric and going on to university and other opportunities” – Zanele Malaza, IkamvaYouth Tutor, Mahikeng Branch
Our CEO, Hope Chidawanyika, acknowledges the collective effort behind this success: “These results are a testament to the unwavering dedication of our learners and the tireless efforts of our staff and volunteers. Despite facing numerous challenges, our learners have demonstrated incredible resilience and achieved outstanding results. We are incredibly proud of each and every one of them.”
To our incredible learners: these results are a testament to your hard work and perseverance. See this as a stepping stone to a brighter future for yourselves, your families, and your communities. Congratulations, Ikamvanites! We are excited to see you succeed as you move forward on your chosen paths!
By: Damien Buckton, Fundraising Officer
In August we successfully concluded The Spirit of Youth Programme which was organised by The Gordon Institute of Business Science in partnership with IkamvaYouth. There were a total of 180 Grade 11 learners from the Western Cape and Gauteng who partook in the exciting, interactive leadership programme. IkamvaYouth learners jumped at the chance to participate in this six-month programme which kicked-off in March earlier this year and consisted of a total of eight enriching Saturday sessions. The Spirit of Youth Programme focused on the following aims:
- The development of leadership skills
- Creating active citizens
- Identifying challenges and opportunities on the African continent
- Utilising social innovation and entrepreneurship to develop effective solutions
- Personal Growth, by enhancing self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and resilience.
- Entrepreneurial Mindset, cultivating innovative thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills.
- Collaboration and Networking
The programme was specifically designed to nurture the talent of young leaders, assist them in developing a better understanding of the South African context and the existing potential in South Africa. It provided learners the platform to build pivotal networks with their peers, think critically about the impact of their choices; and further develop a sense of their own agency to affect the changes they desire. Brian, a learner and participant, reflected on the impact of the experience:
“The Spirit of Youth programme redefined my understanding of leadership, teaching me that true power lies in empowering others. I now strive to inspire and mobilise my peers to drive positive change. The programme awakened my inner leader, equipping me with the skills and confidence to tackle complex social issues and make a meaningful impact in my community.”
Learners not only developed their leadership skills and were moulded into future leaders, but also enjoyed the opportunity for fun games and team-building activities with their peers. A culmination of these programmatic factors supports the holistic development of these young people. Amelia, another participant, highlighted the importance of connecting with with her fellow peers:
“Being surrounded by like-minded individuals from diverse backgrounds sparked a sense of collective responsibility. I’m now driven to collaborate with others to address social and economic challenges in my community. I’m committed to leveraging my skills and network to drive progress toward a more equitable and sustainable future.”
It was not only the learners who benefitted from the programme but also the tutors who found it to be an enriching time as they gained facilitation experience, immersed themselves in the learning materials and felt inspired as they engaged with committed learners. The programme concluded in August with a celebratory graduation ceremony, acknowledging the achievements of the learners, tutors and staff who participated in the programme. Thank you so much to The Gordon Institute of Business Science for partnering with IkamvaYouth and for investing in our future leaders!
IkamvaYouth Gauteng and North West branches celebrate 86% pass rate in the 2023 National Senior Certificate Matric results
Nationally, IkamvaYouth celebrates its 21st anniversary with great matric results, obtaining a 89% pass rate marking a notable 5% improvement compared to the 2022 results. The IkamvaYouth Gauteng and North West branches achieved an impressive 86% pass rate, with 41 distinctions, 64% Bachelor Passes and Diploma Pass. The Diepsloot branch obtained a stellar 100% pass rate; overall the regional results underscore the hard work and dedication of our learners, tutors, stakeholders and IkamvaYouth team, firmly placing IkamvaYouth at the forefront of academic success.
This matric cohort conquered load-shedding and the Covid-19 pandemic leading to receiving their results, this marks two decades of IkamvaYouth’s unwavering commitment and the success of our formidable tutoring model in assisting young people gain access to quality education, skills development, and employment.
Below are the achievements of each branch in the Gauteng and North West region:
- Diepsloot branch achieved a stellar 100% pass rate with 79% bachelor passes and 17% diplomas, and 96% tertiary eligibility
- Ikageng branch obtained an excellent 92% pass rate with 25% bachelor passes and 52% diplomas, and 77% tertiary eligibility
- Ivory Park celebrated its 90% pass rate which is a vast improvement from its 2022 achievement of 70% pass rate
- Mamelodi obtained 87%; Ebony Park at 81%, while Mahikeng achieved a 67% pass rate.
The Diepsloot branch’s top performing learner, Elisa Macamo, from Diepsloot Combined Secondary School gave some insight into how she became part of IY and her schooling journey in light of the challenges faced:
“Three of my friends were part of the IY programme already, and I was spotted by one of the IY tutors who was concerned about me not being on the tutoring programme. He facilitated my application into the programme. Ever since I joined the programme, my self-esteem improved along with my academic results. Today I have achieved a Bachelors pass with 5 distinctions, I am now ready to start my medicine career to meet my Dermatologist destiny. Through the peer-support system and all the excursions I attended at IkamvaYouth, I met a lot of study buddies – since then I have discovered a lot about myself, especially my ability to build positive relationships with diverse individuals and groups”.
Further than academic proficiency, IkamvaYouth remains dedicated to shaping young people into leaders with critical skills necessary to thrive in an ever-evolving world.
- Ntombi Mahlangu, IkamvaYouth District Manager, Gauteng and The North West
The class of 2023, overcoming obstacles to prevail
The 2023 academic year saw IkamvaYouth learners in the Western Cape badly affected by taxi violence as it prevented our staff and tutors from offering quality tutoring to learners. However, the region was able to develop catch up plans for learners working very close with schools.
In addition to the taxi violence, the load-shedding forced the matriculants to constantly review their study time-table. The negative impact of load-shedding cannot be overlooked as it affects learners in many ways including mentally. The class of matriculants should be applauded for showing signs of resilience despite challenges they encountered on the road to matric.
The intense tutoring programme has once again yielded positive results for the Western Cape region, with the six branches achieving an overall 92% pass rate in matric and 64 distinctions.
Below is the breakdown of each branch performed in matric 2023:
- Atlantis 96% obtained, 63% bachelors, 22% diplomas, 12% higher certificates
- Gugulethu 89% obtained, 65% bachelors, 22% diplomas, 3% higher certificates.
- Kuyasa 98% obtained, 65% bachelors, 26% diplomas, 7% higher certificates
- Makhaza 96% obtained, 77% bachelors, 15% diplomas, 4% higher certificates
- Masiphumelele 85% obtained, 54% bachelors, 20% diplomas, 12% higher certificates.
- Nyanga 90% obtained, 59% bachelors, 19% diplomas, 12% higher certificates
Linathi Nkampule from Harry Gwala Senior Secondary School also reflected on the impact IkamvaYouth has had on her studies: “IkamvaYouth gave me the support that I needed with my studies, and I recommended the programme to other learners. I am now planning to enroll in a tertiary institution to further my studies”.
- Luzuko Sidimba, IkamvaYouth District Manager, Western Cape
After-school Support Works!
IkamvaYouth’s KwaZulu-Natal and Eastern Cape regions have once again achieved remarkable success in the matric results for the year 2023, demonstrating the effectiveness of after-school academic intervention. Through the power of the IkamvaYouth model, the KwaZulu Natal and Eastern Cape branches achieved an overall pass rate of 87.6%, with 82% of learners eligible for tertiary education. Over the years, these branches have helped up to 815 learners to matriculate, with 422 achieving bachelor passes enabling them to pursue dignified livelihoods.
Our Chesterville, Joza and Umlazi branches continue to show their commitment to empowering learners and ensuring academic success through dedicated support and comprehensive programs. These branches have helped learners overcome challenges and in turn achieve outstanding results. Each branch’s success can be attributed to its holistic approach to supporting learners throughout the year. Our team goes above and beyond to provide support specific to learner needs. In KwaZulu Natal, in particular, our Chesterville branch achieved an impressive 95% pass rate. Even more remarkable is that all of these learners are eligible for tertiary education. The Umlazi branch, while achieving an 81% pass rate, has also made significant strides in supporting 53% of learners to become eligible for tertiary education.
This is what Mpendulo, from the Umlazi branch, had to say about his journey with IkamvaYouth:
“IkamvaYouth has been of great help when it comes to my academic performance. I received a lot of educational tutoring that made me perform a lot better in school, the proof is in the paper. I found career guidance lessons from IkamvaYouth helpful, they are the ones that led me to the path I have taken in my career.”
Mpundulo obtained four distinctions and is planning to study Podiatry at The University of Johannesburg.
In the Eastern Cape, IkamvaYouth’s Joza branch has achieved an outstanding 87% pass rate. Moreover, an impressive 83% of learners from this branch are now eligible for tertiary education. These results are evidence of our programme’s mission to to create pathways for young people from under-resourced communities to pull themselves and each other into sustainable livelihoods.
These achievements not only celebrate the hard work and dedication of the learners but also highlight the invaluable impact of IkamvaYouth in transforming lives and shaping a brighter future. IkamvaYouth is eternally grateful to all who have made this possible, none of the results would have been obtained without the help of our dedicated volunteers and remarkable partners!
- Thandazo Jaftha, IkamvaYouth District Manager, Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal
By: Nicola-Ann Jukes, Business Development Manager
Last Friday morning, Analo, an IkamvaYouth learner from the class of 2023, came into the Masiphumelele Branch to share her matric results with the branch staff, who she has come to regard as a family. She has been a learner at the branch since 2022 and we have been at her side supporting her and championing her efforts as she moved through her academic journey. She joined the branch as she desperately wanted to improve her marks and have a safe space to study in after school. Friday marked a momentous day for Analo as she has applied to CPUT to study tourism, setting her on a pathway to a successful career and dignified life not just for herself but for her family too. When Analo came into the office, tears were already welling up in her eyes. She was greeted by Sisanda Ntsokotha, a former learner at the branch now the Branch Assistant. Analo burst into tears, sobbing as she shared the news: she had done it! She achieved a bachelor pass and is now one step closer to realising her dreams. Something that seemed impossible to her when she joined the branch.
Analo attended one of the poorest performing schools in the Western Cape, Ocean View High School, situated in Ocean view, an area infamous for its high crime rates, gangsterism and extreme poverty. Ocean View High School produced a dismal pass rate of 54%. Her fellow Ikamvanites at the Masiphumelele branch would have either attended Ocean View High too, or Masiphumelele High School, which only achieved a pass rate of 61% and again is situated in an area plagued by similar issues This context is vital when reviewing the pass rates and achievements of the IkamvaYouth class of 2023. At IkamvaYouth we only work in under-resourced schools in township areas. Collectively our feeder schools achieved a pass rate of 80% and of that 64% of learners will be eligible for tertiary education. This means that 4 out of every ten children at our feeder school will not be able to study further. This paints a very bleak picture in a country where the unemployment rate is currently at 31.9%, and the youth unemployment rate is at 62.1% with education being the key to employment. Through the power of the IkamvaYouth model we are able to create an environment where learners are able to defy the odds of their circumstances and get on track to the road to success.
In a context marked by uncertainty and hardship the IkamvaYouth class of 2023 achieved a stellar 89.4% pass rate. This remarkable feat soars above the national average of 82%, demonstrating what can happen when learners are supported. The quality of passes were significant, as 79.3% learners are now eligible for tertiary education, of which 55.1% were Bachelor passes. We saw a marked increase in distinctions achieved by our learners who collectively achieved 230 distinctions up from 170 in 2022.
Zooming in on the achievements at each branch, our top achieving branch was the Diepsloot branch with a phenomenal 100% pass rate, with Kuyasa Branch coming in at a close second with 98%. The Western Cape was our top performing province with a 92% pass rate and the Gauteng branches were close behind them with a 90% pass rate.
Celebrations at the Ivory Park Branch
Regional Overview
In Gauteng the overall pass rate was 90%. The top achieving branch was the Diepsloot Branch in this region, with a 100% pass rate, 96% tertiary pass rate, of which 79% were Bachelor passes. A very big congratulations to the Diepsloot Branch!
Learners celebrate at Matric Day in Diepsloot
The Western Cape was our top performing region with an overall pass rate of 92%. The top achieving branch in this region was the Kuyasa Branch, with a 98% pass rate, 91% tertiary pass rate, of which 65% were Bachelor passes. Four of our six branches in this region achieved pass rates of 90% or over!
A learner at the Nyanga Branch shares her results with the branch staff
Zooming in on the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu Natal region, where the overall pass rate of 87%. The top achieving branch was the Chesterville Branch, with a 95% pass rate, 95% tertiary pass rate with 67% of these being Bachelor passes.
Matric Day at the Chesterville Branch
In the North West the top achieving branch was the Ikageng Branch, with a 92% pass rate and a 77% tertiary pass rate.
Celebrations at the Ikageng branch on Matric Day
Learners, tutors and staff jump for joy at Matric Day at the Ebony Park Branch
It is important to note that some of our branches have a high number of progressed learners, this is a learner who did not meet the minimum requirements to pass the previous grade but is being moved to the next grade. The IkamvaYouth programmes support any learner regardless of their marks when they join the branch. It is vital to support these learners as they are at risk of falling into the 45% of children who do not make it through the education system. As has been widely reported, even though the Department of Basic Education achieved a 82.9% pass rate of the 1, 208, 973 learners who enrolled in grade 1 in 2012 only 715, 719 full time and 182, 056 part time candidates registered to write the matric exams. Of this cohort of children a shocking 210, 673 learners dropped out of the system from grade 11 to matric.
But the numbers only tell part of the story. Behind these impressive statistics are 668 young bright resilient individuals who have overcome immense challenges to secure their futures. Through IkamvaYouth’s unique programme of academic support, mentoring and life skills development they have not just passed but gained the confidence and skills to thrive in the world beyond.
“This year’s results are a testament to the unwavering commitment of our learners and volunteers,” says Hope Chidawanyika, CEO of IkamvaYouth. “Despite the difficulties they faced, they remained focused and determined, pushing themselves to achieve their full potential. We are incredibly proud of each and every one of them. We will continue on our mission to partner with DBE to improve academic outcomes of learners in under-resourced communities through the power of the IkamvaYouth model. It is through the support of our countless stakeholders, our donors, volunteers, Board and staff that this achievement was possible. We are extremely thankful to all the supporters of the IkamvaYouth Programmes – you made this possible.”
Well done class of 2023, now go out into the world and show them what you are made of!
Celebrations at the Mamelodi Branch on Matric Day
Lloyd Lungu