The Telkom Foundation celebrates the announcement of the 2024 Matric results, and also commends a cohort that began their high school journey amidst the unprecedented challenges of the 2020 Covid-19 pandemic. These results, announced on January 13th from the Department of Basic Education and available to students on January 14th, represent not just academic achievement, but a triumph over adversity.
The Telkom Foundation, a long-term investor in South African education, has supported thousands of learners from Grade 8 through university, with a particular focus on ICT fields. The organisation works with government, the private sector and schools to improve education in Science, Technology, English and Maths – based on a shared conviction that digital skills and access are critical to equipping our youth for the future.
This commitment has yielded remarkable results, including an average pass rate of 85% and 1 243 distinctions achieved by Telkom Foundation alumni within the last three years, predominantly in math and science.
“The Class of 2024’s journey has been defined by resilience,” says Judy Vilakazi, Head of the Telkom Foundation. “Their achievements are a testament to their determination to succeed despite facing unprecedented disruptions to their education. We are incredibly proud of their perseverance and eagerly anticipate celebrating their well-deserved success.”
The Telkom Foundation’s commitment extends beyond traditional schooling. The TelkomLearn platform, a comprehensive suite of digital learning resources, has empowered countless learners and parents with virtual classrooms, tutoring, career guidance, and more. This platform played a crucial role in supporting students throughout the pandemic and continues to be a valuable resource.
This year’s Matric results hold particular significance. The 882,336 candidates (727,121 full-time and 155,215 part-time) represent a generation that navigated the complexities of remote learning and the social-emotional impact of the pandemic. Their success underscores the importance of adaptable educational support systems.
“These results open doors to a world of opportunity,” adds Vilakazi. “They pave the way for higher education at esteemed universities and colleges, equipping these young individuals with the skills needed to thrive in the digital economy.”
The Telkom Foundation’s ongoing investment in education exemplifies how businesses can contribute to societal transformation. Their commitment to empowering youth and fostering a brighter future for South Africa is reflected in the anticipated success of the Matric Class of 2024.
Learn more about the Telkom Foundation and TelkomLearn.
