The Department of Basic Education (DBE) has confirmed that the 2024 matric results will be published in South Africa’s newspapers, following a significant ruling by the Gauteng High Court. The ruling comes after the Information Regulator (IR) attempted to stop the publication, arguing that the practice was not compliant with the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA).
For years, matric results have been published in newspapers using student numbers to protect personal identities. However, the Information Regulator issued an Enforcement Notice in November 2024, demanding that the DBE cease this practice and provide matriculants with their results through POPIA-compliant methods. Despite filing an appeal within the 30-day deadline on December 19, the DBE’s submission was received by the regulator seven days late. Consequently, the regulator issued an infringement notice and imposed a R5 million administrative fine on the department.
In an effort to enforce the notice, the IR approached the Gauteng High Court with an urgent application to stop the publication of the results. The matter was heard on January 7, 2025, by Judge Ronal Tolmay, who ultimately dismissed the application. The judge ruled that the matter was not urgent and struck it from the roll with costs. Judge Tolmay emphasized that the dispute appeared to be a disagreement between the parties rather than a direct issue affecting students. She noted that no complaints from matriculants had been lodged under POPIA and that there was no evidence of harm or prejudice to learners.
With the interdict dismissed, the DBE can now proceed with its traditional practice of publishing matric results in newspapers. Students will be able to access their results using their student numbers, as has been the norm. However, Judge Tolmay urged both the DBE and the Information Regulator to collaborate and find a solution that serves the best interests of learners. While this ruling resolves the immediate conflict, the broader issue of compliance with POPIA remains unresolved.
The decision has significant implications for matriculants and their families. For many, newspaper publications provide a quick and accessible way to view results, especially in areas with limited internet access. The ruling ensures that learners can access their results through a familiar and convenient method. At the same time, the case raises important questions about balancing accessibility with privacy, highlighting the need for clear and practical guidelines on handling personal information in education.
For now, matriculants can rest assured that the 2024 results will be published in newspapers as expected. This outcome preserves a long-standing tradition while allowing time for further discussions between the DBE and the Information Regulator. As this story develops, it remains clear that both parties must prioritize the needs of students and their right to both access and privacy.
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