1. Dropout Rates: The 32% of learners who did not write matric highlights systemic issues that are not addressed by pass rates alone. These dropouts represent lost potential and a failure to retain learners through the education pipeline. 

1. Socio-Economic Disparities: The high reliance on social grants and the performance gaps between Quintile 1-3 and Quintile 4-5 schools underscore persistent inequalities. 

1. Focus on Bachelor’s Passes: While the increase in Bachelor’s passes is celebrated, this metric alone does not reflect the readiness of learners for tertiary education or the job market. Many Bachelor’s pass recipients still struggle to meet university admission requirements in key subjects. 

1. Subject-Specific Declines: The decline in Physical Sciences performance, coupled with decreasing participation in this subject, signals a worrying trend that could impact the country’s STEM ambitions. 

To address these challenges, the following measures may be considered: 

1. Enhanced Support for Rural and Quintile 1-3 Schools: Allocate more resources to schools in underprivileged areas to close the performance gap. 

1. Focus on Retention: Implement programs to reduce dropout rates, such as early intervention for at-risk learners and support for socio-economically disadvantaged families. 

1. STEM Education: Strengthen Mathematics and Physical Sciences education through teacher training, better facilities, and initiatives to boost learner interest and participation. 

1. Transparency in Reporting: Provide disaggregated data that highlights dropout rates, subject-specific performance, and regional disparities to enable a more comprehensive evaluation of the education system.