The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi, today concluded a critical interactive session with underperforming schools in the Bojanala District, outlining targeted interventions to enhance academic outcomes and address specific challenges, particularly in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) subjects.
Bojanala District, a pivotal region within the North West Province, supports a significant 385,841 learners across its 618 schools, guided by the dedication of approximately 12,279 teachers. The district consistently reports the highest number of Grade 12 learners province-wide and boasts a commendable track record, maintaining an achievement rate exceeding 80% over the past six years, with its highest recorded at 89.55% in 2019. In 2024, the district narrowly missed its 90% target, achieving 89.4%.
Despite these strong overall results, the district’s ambitious target of 97% has been significantly impacted by performance in critical STEM subjects. It was highlighted that 3,007 learners specifically failed these subjects, which also adversely affected performance in other academic streams. Particular concern was raised regarding three schools—Reebone Secondary School (76%), Ramoroko Secondary (72%), and Morare Secondary (78%)—which experienced notable declines in their Term Two performance.
MEC Motsumi emphasized the urgency of addressing these gaps, encouraging school principals to fully utilize intervention programmes introduced by the department. “Our commitment to every learner’s success is unwavering,” stated MEC Motsumi. “We must strategically deploy all available resources to bolster performance, especially in subjects critical for future economic participation and national development.”
To this end, MEC Motsumi advised the district to implement comprehensive strategies, including extra classes and weekend camps, and fostering a culture of peer teaching, where top-performing teachers mentor and support underperforming schools. These interventions are crucial as the North West province prepares for upcoming preparatory examinations scheduled before the end of August 2025.
Positive strides are already visible; Bojanala District improved its Term Two pass rate from 82% last year to 89% this year. Furthermore, all Local Area Offices demonstrated improvement, with Moses Kotane increasing by 15%, Rustenburg by 1%, Moretele by 6%, and Madibeng by 7%. While significant progress has been made, the district currently requires an additional number of learners to achieve its ambitious 97% overall target, underscoring the collective effort still needed.
For more information, please contact:
Mphata Molokwane Departmental Spokesperson 082 979 3638
Elias Malindi Acting Head of Communications 072 892 8399
Bayanda Zenzile Media Liaison Officer 082 307 6852
