A critical discourse analysis of the coverage of the low matric pass rate in rural Eastern Cape : the case study of the Daily Dispatch

Abstract

Matric learner's poor academic performance is one of the main challenges that South Africa is faced with, particularly, in the Eastern Cape. In this study, the coverage of the Daily Dispatch newspaper on the low matric pass rate in rural Eastern Cape communities between 2015 and 2019 was identified, described, and examined. Quintile one (1) to three (3) schools in the Eastern Cape were the subject of this thesis as they constantly receive the lowest performance ratings. The qualitative research method was used to respond to this study’s research questions and investigate the reasons behind the representation of the low matric pass rate in rural Eastern Cape. The findings revealed that the Daily Dispatch covers the low matric pass rate unfavourably with no coverage of how, by whom, or when the matric pass rate can be improved. The reasons for the poor matric pass rate in quantile 1-3 schools are not sufficiently covered, and the majority of the relevant sources were not included in the articles. It was also discovered that the ownership of the Daily Dispatch impacts the quality of news produced. This therefore goes against the media’s role which includes offering the public concise, unbiased, and comprehensive news alerts to ensure that the society is made aware of the world they live in, especially on their issues of interest.