​Gauteng news 
The Department of Basic Education has announced that matric exam results will no longer be published on media platforms.
This decision is in line with the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA), 2013 (Act No. 04 of 2013) which came into effect on 01 July 2021. 
"In order to comply with the provisions of the POPIA, the usual practice of publishing the National Senior Certificate examination results on public platforms (media platforms), will not occur for 2021 NSC examination results. 
"In this way, every learner's personal information, with regards to the outcomes of the 2021 NSC exams, will be protected," Basic Education Minister, Angie Motshekga, announced on Tuesday.
The department is expected to announce the matric exam results for the Class of 2021 on 20 January 2022.
Motshekga said the results will demonstrate how the sector has worked hard under difficult circumstances to support learners. 
"We need to rally behind our learners, show them support, and not discourage them by spreading false news, which could affect their confidence and the future."
Responding to the ongoing debate on the pass requirements for the National Senior Certificate, Motshekga said 30% is not a pass mark.
"If a candidate gets an aggregate of 30% in all subjects written, the candidate will surely fail. There are myths, which are being repeated year after year, almost by the same people on this matter; and it is unfortunate and disappointing," the minister said condemning the spread of misleading information.
Meanwhile, Motshekga officially launched the department's Second Chance Matric Programme in Mpumalanga.
The department will continue with this campaign, which is intended to encourage young people to never give up on their dreams. 
"The registration for the 2022 Matric rewrite examinations started on 01 October 2021, and will close on 15 February 2022 – therefore, there is about a month to register for the Matric rewrite. The mid-year exams, will start on 09 May 2022, and end on 23 June 2022," the minister said.