There is strong evidence to indicate that principals weeded out higher-risk candidates to increase the 2010 matric pass rate.

Since 2004 government has emphasised qualitative passes moving away from artificial increases, writes Nick Taylor.

Outcomes-based education is in trouble in South Africa. While politicians continue to affirm its importance for the school curriculum, its worldwide architect, Willian Spady, declares that it was never implemented in South Africa. According to Spady, what passes for OBE here has no relation to the true principles of OBE.

The shrill tone of much of the comment that follows the annual publication of the National Senior Certificate (NSC) results is perhaps understandable, given its importance not only to the future life prospects of candidates, but also to the development of the country.

There is strong evidence to indicate that principals weeded out higher-risk candidates to increase the 2010 matric pass rate.

Since 2004 government has emphasised qualitative passes moving away from artificial increases, writes Nick Taylor.

Outcomes-based education is in trouble in South Africa. While politicians continue to affirm its importance for the school curriculum, its worldwide architect, Willian Spady, declares that it was never implemented in South Africa. According to Spady, what passes for OBE here has no relation to the true principles of OBE.

The shrill tone of much of the comment that follows the annual publication of the National Senior Certificate (NSC) results is perhaps understandable, given its importance not only to the future life prospects of candidates, but also to the development of the country.