School dropout rate set to soar
MATRIC 2021: FRACTURED GRADE 11 YEAR A DISASTER
While the 2020 matriculants outperformed expectations amid the pandemic, the class of 2021 could face more challenges due to a disruptive Grade 11 year, when they not only lost a term, but attended school on a rotational basis, said experts.
The 2021 matrics passed Grade 11 without writing examinations and only focusing on the fundamental subjects.
The 76.2% pass rate in 2020 was because they had the foundation of a normal year in 2019, said education expert Mary Metcalfe.
The preceding grades were important for conceptual and skill foundation, she said.
“However, it is subject specific. Most crucial is mathematics [and] physical science in terms of content and application of content.
“In some subjects, like history and geography, the National Senior Certificate will examine topics, but build on skills relevant to the subject built in previous years,” she said.
“The challenges of the pandemic impacting on [pupils] included both loss of time and psychosocial stress, including anxieties associated with family and community well-being.
“The Grade 12s of 2021 lost not only the lockdown period – returning only on 24 August – but also alternating attendance daily and weekly.”
More than 120 000 matriculants were assumed to have dropped out in 2020, as they did not sit for final exams, but this number could be worse this year, experts said.
Metcalfe said this was a problem which occurred when pupils disengaged with their schooling.
“My calculation is that 126 534 registered matriculants did not write [last year]. Dropping out is a major challenge and it happens when [pupils] disengage.”
Last year, the dropout rate could be linked to fears of catching Covid-19 in schools, said basic education department spokesman Elijah Mhlanga.
A poor economy and job losses could lead to more pupils leaving school to find work, said education expert Papama Mnqandi.
“What is linked to it is the forced requirements of continuing to go to school while unemployment is rising, transport fees are increasing and less people affording.”