Matric results debate: Mixed reactions to Publication in Media

The release of matric results in newspapers has sparked diverse opinions among KwaZulu-Natal pupils as the North Gauteng High Court dismissed an urgent application to prevent their publication. The court’s ruling allows the Department of Basic Education (DBE) to publish the results on January 14, with only exam numbers visible, adhering to a 2022 court order prohibiting the inclusion of names.

On Wednesday, the North Gauteng High Court dismissed an application by the Information Regulator (IR) seeking to halt the results’ publication. The court ruled the matter lacked urgency, ordering the IR to cover legal costs. While the merits of the case remain undecided, Judge Ronel Tolmay emphasized the ruling focused solely on the urgency of the application.

Minister of Basic Education Siviwe Gwarube thanked the IR for highlighting concerns and pledged to collaborate with the regulator to address future issues.

Pupils Share Mixed Feelings

The tradition of publishing results in newspapers has drawn mixed reactions from students awaiting their results:

• Privacy Concerns: A Belverton Secondary School pupil criticized the practice, calling it outdated and an invasion of privacy. “Even though it’s just a number, it’s still public for everyone to see. It adds unnecessary pressure and anxiety,” she noted.
• Excitement vs. Stress: A Tongaat Secondary School pupil shared conflicting feelings. “I want to experience the thrill of finding my number in the paper, but it can also cause anxiety if others access your results before you do,” she explained.

The IR maintains that publishing the results infringes on students’ rights to privacy. After issuing an enforcement notice in November prohibiting the publication, the regulator found the DBE unwilling to comply. Despite the court ruling, the IR hinted at returning to court, arguing that publishing the results remains a violation until their appeal is heard.

Mukelani Dimba, the IR’s education and communication executive, confirmed their intent to challenge the decision. “The merits of this case will eventually be tested in court,” he said.

Not all parties opposed the decision. AfriForum, a respondent in the application, welcomed the ruling. Alana Bailey, Head of Cultural Affairs at AfriForum, celebrated the outcome as a victory for matriculants. “The publication is significant for many matriculants who value the tradition and transparency it offers,” she stated.

While the court’s ruling provides temporary clarity, the broader debate on balancing privacy with tradition continues. For now, matriculants can expect their results to be accessible through newspapers on January 14.

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