Consolidating the General Education Certificate in South Africa

The General Education Certificate (GEC) is a new national qualification being introduced in South Africa at the end of Grade 9, marking the completion of compulsory education. The GEC encompasses a range of assessment methods and aims to provide a comprehensive picture of a learner’s academic achievement, abilities and readiness to transition into either Grades 10 12 in high school or technical and vocational education and training (TVET) colleges. This paper reviews the GEC and provides suggestions for strengthening it. Notably, new centrally developed Curriculum Tests present an important opportunity to assess all learners against common national standards. South Africa can use the GEC Curriculum Tests to promote high standards for all and to target support for learners with weaknesses in learning. Furthermore, the GEC’s Integrated Project is an innovative approach to fostering and recognising 21st Century Skills. Additionally, the GEC’s Inclinations Assessment has the potential to help learners identify future pathways but developing accessible technical and vocational options at Grades 10 12 will be key for strengthening transitions to vocational education and employment.