Sadtu anticipates improvement in matric results

The SA Democratic Teachers Union (Sadtu) in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) says they expect an improvement in matric results in the province when they are released tomorrow.

Last year, the pass rate dropped from 73.9 to 70.4%. KK Nkosi, the provincial Satdu spokesperson, says they tried to ensure that learners were not affected negatively by a change in the curriculum. Nkosi says the fact that they did not go on strike may reflect positively on the results.

Sadtu in KwaZulu-Natal has threatened to embark on strike action in the first term of next year if teachers' concerns are not addressed. Nkosi says the department must address salary disparities and working conditions before schools re-open.

Meanwhile, Cameron Dugmore, the Western Cape minister of education, says he is confident that the province will maintain its high matric pass rate. Last year the Western Cape achieved an 84.4% pass rate, the highest in the country.

Grade 12 learners across the province are bracing themselves ahead of the release of matric results tomorrow. Dugmore says opportunities await the class of 2006.

IFP congratulates successful matriculants
Zanele Magwaza, the national chairperson of the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP), has congratulated successful matriculants and encouraged those who were unable to meet the exam requirements.

Magwaza said in a statement: "Many congratulations to all who have passed their matric exams... Whatever your path we hope that it will involve further education and a commitment to life in South Africa.

The IFP sympathise with those who did not meet the matric exam requirements. "This is not the end of the world and we encourage you to keep trying," said Magwaza. - Additional reporting by Sapa