The Democratic Alliance expressed relief on Friday that this year’s matric exams went off with fewer hitches, but it partly blamed the lack of job creation on the government’s restrictive labour legislation.
In a statement on Friday, DA spokesperson Anthony Hazell said the government’s restrictive labour legislation and over-regulation of the economy, which discourages rather than encourages job creation, are partly responsible for the lack of employment.
On the other hand, he said the current curriculum does not prepare young people for the requirements of the workplace.
Hazell said while schools prepare pupils ”80%” for an academic career, they do not prepare them for the workplace.
He said most pupils study subjects they do not follow into their career.
”Thousands of learners choose subject combinations just to pass matric and which are pointless for their employability in the labour market,” said Hazell.
Hazell said the situation is exacerbated by the poor standard of education received by pupils.
”Our concern is for the large proportion of matrics that will struggle to do anything with their qualification. On top of this, they receive a sub-standard school education”.
He said those who enjoy a high-standard education, well-qualified teachers, small classes and the necessary resources in a disciplined environment receive a matric certificate of value.
”They are well-placed to excel further, and to compete with the best in the world,” said Hazell. — Sapa