Matric Results 2023: 90 Incarcerated Learners Excel With 278 Distinctions, Stirring Public Debate

Matric Results 2023: 90 Incarcerated Learners Excel With 278 Distinctions, Stirring Public Debate

  • Matric results are out and the basic education minister shared the achievements of some inmates
  • Angie Motshekga said 90 young inmates secured bachelor degree passes and obtained 278 distinctions between them
  • The outstanding results triggered online discussions about educational access and opportunities for those behind bars
Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga and matric prisoners
Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga shared how prison inmates performed in their matric exams. Image: @DBE_SA and @KayaNews
Source: Twitter

PRETORIA - Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga revealed the exceptional matric results achieved by young inmates who wrote their final exams in correctional facilities last year.

Prison inmates' matric results

According to News24, a total of 90 inmates secured bachelor degree passes, with a combined 278 distinctions.

Out of the 147 incarcerated learners who were full-time candidates, 137 passed the National Senior Certificate (NSC) exams, resulting in an impressive 93.2% success rate.

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SA weighs in on prisoners' matric results

While many South Africans applauded the inmates' achievements, a debate ensued about the apparent educational advantages provided to those behind bars compared to citizens not in prison.

Social media posts highlighted broader concerns about equity and access to quality education for all members of society.

See some comments below:

Kaballas Ka Plakkies wrote:

"And that is how messed up the education system is in government institutions."

Phelo Zolisa Mkhwane mentioned:

"They must have had a lot of time to study and used it effectively."

Sbu Khoza commented:

"Great to see they didn't waste the opportunity they were given."

Rica S'ga said:

"They should be getting 100% marks. They don't stress about going to school with a uniform or money to buy food."

Kanyana'aMoshikwa Marutla added:

"They are good examples of a bad example. May they continue to do relevant and important things given the time available. I hope they are also learning about the dignity of mankind, the inherent worth of people and the morality of human conduct."

Read also

Matric class of 2023 celebrates in style at petrol station in TikTok video

Mpumalanga matriculant graduates as top performer

In a related article, Briefly News reported that Bhekumuzi Mnisi, one of Mzansi's top matric performers for the National Senior Certificate examinations 2023, sacrificed a lot to ensure he achieved high grades.

The young man sacrificed friends and mjolo and persevered through losing his grandmother to come out tops. Siuthg Africans were proud of him and gave him a virtual standing ovation.

Source: Briefly News

Authors:
Hilary Sekgota avatar

Hilary Sekgota (Deputy Human Interest HOD) Hilary Sekgota is the Head of Desk for Evening and Weekend content at Briefly News. She completed a BA in Communication Science from Unisa in 2018 and a Diploma in Journalism from Varsity College in 2010. She also passed a set of trainings by Google News Initiative. Hilary joined the Briefly News team in 2022 and started her journalism career at Tshwane Sun. She has 12 years of experience covering current affairs and human interest topics. Email: hilary.sekgota@briefly.co.za