Pretoria – Over the past ten years, South Africa’s basic education system has undergone a steady transformation, with improved learner outcomes, curriculum innovation, and expanded access shaping a sector increasingly aligned with the demands of a modern economy.
At the centre of this progress has been Mathanzima Mweli, Director-General of the Department of Basic Education, whose tenure has been marked by a sustained focus on performance, inclusion, and long-term reform.
He has led nationwide learner support programmes, including direct engagement with top-performing districts and targeted interventions in underperforming schools. These initiatives aim to raise standards across all grades while ensuring that no learner is left behind.
One of the most visible indicators of progress has been the consistent improvement in the National Senior Certificate results. Over the past decade, pass rates have regularly exceeded 75%, with several cohorts surpassing the 80% threshold.
Beyond overall pass rates, the quality of results has also improved significantly. More learners are achieving bachelor passes, opening pathways to higher education. Gains in key subjects such as Mathematics, Physical Sciences, and Accounting point to stronger teaching and learning outcomes across the system.
Recognising the need to prepare learners for a rapidly changing world, the department has driven an ambitious curriculum modernisation programme under Mweli’s leadership.
The introduction of Coding and Robotics in schools marks a major shift toward digital literacy and problem-solving skills. At the same time, the expansion of technical and vocational streams has created alternative pathways for learners seeking practical, career-oriented education.
New and expanded subjects—including Marine Sciences, Aviation Studies, and Agricultural Technology—reflect a broader effort to align education with South Africa’s economic priorities and future opportunities.
A key pillar of reform has been strengthening foundational learning. Programmes aimed at improving literacy and numeracy in early grades have been prioritised, with initiatives such as the Early Grade Reading Study showing measurable improvements, particularly in under-resourced schools.
By investing in early childhood development and the foundation phase, the department has sought to address long-standing inequalities and improve long-term educational outcomes.
Mweli has also prioritised reading literacy, recognising it as a foundational skill for long-term academic success. Through engagement programmes with school principals and education leaders, the department has sought to address challenges in reading comprehension and overall learner performance
The past decade has also seen increased integration of technology in classrooms. Digital learning platforms, smart classrooms, and connectivity initiatives have expanded access to educational resources, especially in rural and underserved communities.
While challenges remain in ensuring equal access, the sector’s digital transformation has accelerated, particularly in response to disruptions like the COVID-19 pandemic, helping to build a more resilient education system.
Central to these reforms has been a renewed emphasis on teacher development. Continuous professional training, subject specialisation, and partnerships with higher education institutions have strengthened educator capacity.
These efforts aim to ensure that teachers are equipped to deliver the evolving curriculum and support improved learner performance.
South Africa’s schooling system has also made strides in broadening access. High enrolment rates have been sustained, while efforts to retain learners through to Grade 12 have intensified.
Inclusive education has gained traction, with increased support for learners with special needs and the expansion of specialised schools. Social support programmes, including school nutrition and learner transport, have helped reduce barriers linked to poverty and inequality.
While challenges such as infrastructure backlogs and resource constraints persist, the overall trajectory of the sector points to steady progress.
Under Mweli’s leadership, the Department of Basic Education has not only improved academic outcomes but also repositioned the system to meet the demands of the 21st century.
Mweli has consistently emphasised that education remains the cornerstone of South Africa’s development, social cohesion, and economic growth.
“Policy and leadership only have meaning when they translate into improved teaching practices and better learning outcomes,” he has previously noted.