South African woman raises alarm over reports that 90% of Grade 1 learners are failing

A South African woman sparked a heated national conversation after raising concerns about Grade 1 learners failing at alarming rates
The TikTok video drew thousands of comments from parents, teachers and viewers who all had different views on who is to blame
South Africans pointed to everything from phones and curriculum problems to overcrowded classrooms and lack of early childhood preparation

A South African woman took to TikTok on 15 October 2026 to ask a question that hit a nerve across the country. In a selfie-style video posted by @airnhle3, she raised the alarm about reports showing that 90% of Grade 1 learners are failing, with many unable to read at all.

Woman shares thoughts on grade 1 learners failing — A woman shares thoughts on a Grade 1 learner failing in South Africa. Image: @airnhle3 / TikTok / Artem Podrez / Pexels
Source: UGC

She asked what they believed was driving the crisis. She offered her own tentative theory around alcohol consumption during pregnancy, though she was careful to say she was not certain. "I'm not saying it's that, but I'm thinking the problem is the teachers or what?" she said.

The video by @airnhle3 quickly drew thousands of responses, with South Africans debating the root causes from every angle. Many pointed fingers at the education system itself, while others turned the spotlight on parents and home environments. Watch the video below:

Teachers, Curriculum and Overcrowded Classrooms

@Mrs.Fatso♥️ wrote:

"Ama phone are the problem."

@Sipho_Sthombe offered a more balanced take:

"But we cannot leave our children's entire education in the hands of teachers and expect miracles. Even 20 minutes of our time can make a difference."

@booitee_mellow focused on the home:

"Parents don't read to their children. Literacy is important."

Several commenters pointed squarely at the classroom environment. @Apple User697222 wrote bluntly:

"Teachers are busy making content."

@Sneh Khuzwayo ❤️ offered context:

"Various problems, mama, overcrowded classrooms, not enough time for teachers to recognise or help struggling learners."

@Josey🌸 shared a personal experience:

"My son was in a private school that teaches with the IEB curriculum, and he was excelling, passing with high marks. He's now in a semi-private school that teaches with the CAPS curriculum; his English marks dropped to 66% this past term."

One commenter, @PRINCESS, shared a heartbreaking story about her daughter:

"My daughter failed Grade 1. The teacher told me it's dyslexia, if I'm correct, and said half the school have it, and mind you, she is 12 and still in Grade 4; she can't read yooooo it's painful."

South African woman raises alarm over reports that 90% of Grade 1 learners are failing

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