Azra Hoosen | ah@radioislam.co.za
11 January 2025 | 11:30 CAT
2 min read

The release of the 2024 matric results has stirred up anxiety among learners after a legal battle over privacy concerns nearly delayed their publication. The Information Regulator had tried to stop the results from being printed in newspapers, claiming it violated the Protection of Personal Information (POPI) Act. But the court dismissed the urgent application, clearing the way for the results to be published on schedule.

Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube assured learners that the results would still be released this year, with plans to adopt privacy-compliant measures in 2025. Meanwhile, Portfolio Committee Chairperson Joy Maimela welcomed the court’s decision but said the dispute had caused unnecessary confusion and added to the stress learners were already feeling as they waited for their results. “Now, we feel that this court process and this dispute are adding to the anxiety that our learners are feeling at the moment because they create confusion. We would have hoped that both entities would have had a constructive engagement earlier in the year and not have these court proceedings at this time when our learners are really now feeling the anxiety, anticipating the results,” she said.

Following the court’s dismissal of the case against publishing matric results, the focus now shifts to fostering constructive dialogue. Maimela emphasised the need for engagement between the Information Regulator, the Department of Basic Education, and other stakeholders to address privacy concerns under the Protection of Personal Information (POPI) Act.

Maimela recalled that historically, matric results were published with the names of candidates, but after concerns were raised by civil society organisations about the pressure and mental strain this placed on learners, the approach changed to using examination numbers only. “That was a positive step forward,” she said.

She also acknowledged that while progress has been made, ongoing concerns from some sectors highlight the need for further dialogue. “Our call is for an open and inclusive discussion with all affected parties—especially the learners themselves—so we can find a solution that balances transparency with emotional well-being. The goal should be to publish matric results in a way that doesn’t cause undue stress or pressure on any candidate,” she said.

Supporting learners through Matric result anxiety

Maimela emphasised the need for robust psychosocial support to help learners cope with the stress of matric results. She called for collaboration among parents, teachers, and communities to create safe spaces where students can express their concerns. She urges the Department of Basic Education to ensure schools have trained personnel and social workers available to provide emotional support, especially for those who may not pass. She highlighted options like the matric second chance program and the three-stream model as pathways for learners to continue their education.

“We must assure learners that this is not the end of the road,” Maimela said, encouraging all stakeholders to remain vigilant and supportive during this critical time.

Matric results publication: Balancing privacy and compliance

The Department of Basic Education plans to fully comply with the Protection of Personal Information (POPI) Act in the 2025 matric results publication. Currently, only examination numbers—unique to candidates and valid for one year—are published, ensuring no personal details like names or ID numbers are disclosed. This approach aims to safeguard student privacy while complying with legal standards.

Maimela noted this system represents a middle ground between privacy concerns and transparency. She emphasised the importance of listening to public concerns about residual risks and engaging in constructive dialogue to address them.

On public confidence in the department’s handling of sensitive information, Maimela highlighted significant improvements over the years, including measures to prevent question paper leaks and ensure the integrity of the National Senior Certificate process. “Confidence is built, or it is eroded over certain incidences. Over time there has been improvement in terms of how the department handles sensitive information about candidates,” she added.

She encouraged continued trust in the department’s efforts to protect candidates’ data.

LISTEN to the full interview with Ml Habib Bobat and Joy Maimela, Portfolio Committee Chairperson, here.