The current policy states that even if pupils pass all other subjects with distinctions, but get less than the threshold of 40% for mathematics, they fail the year.
The department says while there is no such a thing as a 20% pass mark for mathematics, it has taken a decision to condone learners who have passed all other subjects but failed mathematics with a minimum of 20%.
The department’s Elijah Mhlanga says the decision was made for 2016 learners between grade 7 and 9 because the policy is under review.
Mhlanga says it has been unfair to those who do not want to pursue mathematics after grade 10.
