#1
Certify Us

Youth Capital advocates for ways to improve certification rates for young people.

An educational qualification is a passport into opportunities. But too many systemic challenges push young South Africans to drop out of school, college or university before qualifying. A sharp focus on certification can change young people’s ability to earn an income.

Education Certify us Education Certify us Education Certify us

the fact is

1 in 2

Grade 1s who reach and pass Grade 12

250 000

People who try to re-write their matric outside of the school system

6 in 10

People who get an undergraduate degree within 6 years

In 2014, I was doing my first year at Stellenbosch University. Going from a rural high school into an Afrikaans- dominated university was a big issue for me. Every time I had to study for exams it felt like it was my first time hearing about the particular topic because of the language barrier. Only one lecturer realised I was struggling and reached out; we had one-on-one sessions and when I dropped out, in the second semester, I had the highest marks in that subject. Four years later I am graduating in same degree but at a different university.

– Thandile

RESEARCH

The Second Chance Matric Programme by the Department of Basic Education is currently the only option for young people to re-write matric if they have not passed; often, this programme is the only way to re-engage with the education system, and move forward.

Youth Capital’s research brief Matrics ‘on the Fringe’ highlights the challenges young people face when attempting to re-write their matric on their own, and what solutions could support them. 

What could improved certification look like?

Information regarding the matric rewrite programme is easily accessible

The General Education Certificate sets young people up for vocational success

Radical overhaul of the skilling journey, led by industry and not government institutions

sign up for the community

We’re a community of passionate people who believe that change can only be achieved when working together. We’ll share research, insights, advocacy actions and ways to organise so you can start advocating for change with your friends and in your communities, today!

more from the action plan

ACTION PLAN | EDUCATION

#2 Catch us up

ACTION PLAN | EDUCATION

#3 make us count

ACTION PLAN | EDUCATION

#4 support us beyond the classroom