MPs Clash as South Africa’s 30% Pass Mark Faces Its Biggest Challenge Yet

A heated debate erupted in Parliament as MPs fiercely contested South Africa’s long-standing 30% school pass mark. Critics argue that the benchmark undermines education quality and sets learners up for failure in higher grades and the job market. Supporters insist it prevents mass dropouts and reflects the realities of an unequal system. As calls grow for a higher national standard, the Department of Basic Education faces mounting pressure to justify keeping the controversial threshold in place.