'Much has been achieved, but much more needs to be done' - Angie Motshekga
The Minister of Basic Education Angie Motshekga has applauded the class of 2017, which recorded a slight improvement in the overall pass rate.
More than 600 000 candidates sat for the final exam with just over 400 000 passing, resulting in a 75.1% pass rate - including progressed learners.
"I want to take off my hat for the class of 2017, I wish the best in their future," says Motshekga. "I believe that they will continue to sign wherever they are."
Initially however, more than 800 000 learners applied to complete their matric in 2017.
Motshekga called on all those who dropped out or failed their final examination to go back and complete their senior certificate.
She says the basic education system still needs to improve its efficiency and quality.
"Despite the notable improvements in our system, we are yet to cause our own rubicon," explains Motshekga.
Provincial results
Motshekga noted an "upward trend" in the performance of South Africa's most rural provinces due to interventions by the department.
These provinces include the Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal and Limpopo.
"I am encouraged that indeed the interventions that the provinces put in place are beginning to pay dividends," says Motshekga.
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The Free State was again the best performing province with a pass rate of 86.1%.
It was followed by Gauteng (85.1%) and Western Cape (82.7%).
Meanwhile, Limpopo and the Eastern Cape were the worst performing provinces, both recording a pass rate of below 66%.
Motshekga says they will continue giving attention to the Eastern Cape and Limpopo to improve the overall learner performance.