DBE's National Assessment Directorate is currently at an advanced stage of engagement before the implementation of the General Education Certificate (GEC). The Basic Education Sector will be able to reach the full-scale implementation of the GEC in public and independent schools during 2024, Dr Mark Chetty confirmed during the GEC Workshop held at Kopanong Hotel in Benoni recently. Dr Chetty is the Director for National Assessment at the Department of Basic Education.

Dr Chetty indicated that the DBE has already made headway in terms of consolidating the GEC model in line with the priorities of the Sixth Administration. The current administration is determined to improve quality learning outcomes at the GET level across all nine provinces.  “In relation to the GEC, learners will, at the end of Grade 9, receive a holistic score card of curriculum skills, talents and competencies that will serve as an enabling platform for them to access various learning pathways linked to the Three Stream Model. The implementation of the GEC is a significant milestone in expanding career opportunities for learners, irrespective of their geographical locations. The GEC assessment model has been structured along international best practices on various pathway qualifications to find a suitable model that will be implemented in the South African context. Each year, the rollout of the GEC will include a greater number of schools leading to full-scale implementation,” explained Dr Chetty.

Several participants from Provincial Assessment Units commended the DBE for its dedication towards introducing the GEC in the South African education landscape. They acknowledged the knowledge gained during the GEC training, saying that regular engagement on issues relating to the GEC will support the DBE in its quest towards full scale implementation. Mr Mokgobo Thibile, from the Free State Examinations and Assessment Unit commented: “The training was very informative and provided a clear picture of the GEC pilot. The training further enabled us as participants from the various provinces to share best practice on GEC assessment. The GEC should therefore be seen as an applicable tool to broaden learners’ career choices in Further Education and Training (FET)”.

Dr Mkhwanazi from the Assessment Unit in the Mpumalanga Province stated that the GEC is a good initiative since it aims to assess learners holistically, with consideration of the three career inclinations, curriculum attainment and general capabilities. “In my view, the GEC is an incredible instrument to be considered in assessing knowledge, skills, values and attitudes and will be helpful in equipping learners with the necessary skills to meet the demands of the 21st Century. I believe that the country is heading in the right direction as it acknowledges that learners are different and must be assessed holistically. The inclination tests will assist them to select the correct pathways”.