MEC Bentley Vass, responsible for the Department of Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements, and Traditional Affairs (COGHSTA) and then still leading the Department of Transport, Safety and Liaison, recently visited various schools across the Namakwa District to monitor the re-opening of schools for the 2025 academic year. The visit was part of provincial governments annual back-to-school programme, which aims to engage with learners, educators, and school governing bodies to promote education and student success.

During his visit, MEC Vass congratulated the Grade 12 learners of the Northern Cape for their exceptional academic achievements. The province saw a remarkable increase in the provincial pass rate, rising from 75.8% in 2023 to an impressive 84.19% in 2024. This marks a significant improvement, with the Northern Cape’s matric results reaching an all-time high, up from 65% in 2019.

At Namakwaland High School in Springbok, MEC Vass had the opportunity to congratulate the matric class of 2024 for achieving a remarkable 93.4% pass rate. He commended the learners for their hard work and dedication, encouraging them to stay focused on their studies to secure a brighter future. MEC Vass also addressed the educators and School Governing Body (SGB), urging them to lead with integrity and to continue supporting the learners in their academic journey.

MEC Vass also visited SA Van Wyk High School, where the matric class of 2024 achieved a 78% pass rate, an improvement of 15% from the previous year. He stressed the importance of collaboration between all education stakeholders – including educators, parents, and the SGB – to create a successful learning environment. Noting some of the challenges faced by the school, MEC Vass pledged to work with the School Management Team (SMT) to address these issues and ensure a better future for the learners.

Accompanied by key local leaders, including the Mayor of the Richtersveld Municipality, Councillor Knopp, and the Acting Chairperson of the Municipal Public Accounts Committee, Councillor Cloete, MEC Vass’s visit underscores the commitment of the provincial government to improving educational outcomes and fostering community engagement in the Namakwa District.

In his address, MEC Vass reinforced the message that education is a shared responsibility. He urged all stakeholders to work together to overcome challenges and ensure the continued success of students, ultimately unlocking greater opportunities for future generations.