Free matric toolkit helps class of 2026 prepare for finals

As the Class of 2026 prepares for their matric final exams, Kagiso Trust has launched a free downloadable toolkit to help learners plan, study and make informed decisions about life after school.

The Makers of the Future toolkit offers practical support, including monthly planning guides, study techniques, exam strategies, stress management tips, mental health support contacts and information on post-matric pathways.

Kagiso Trust CEO Mankodi Moitse said many learners begin matric knowing the year is important, but not always knowing how to manage the pressure.

“The learners face identical challenges: managing exam stress, understanding options, and accessing funding. Yet we expect each learner to solve these problems individually,” said Moitse.

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Moitse said the toolkit encourages learners to study consistently and strategically rather than relying on last-minute cramming.

“Success in matric isn’t built through overnight cramming or 24/7 studying, it’s built through consistent, strategic effort,” she said.

The toolkit also highlights that university is not the only option after matric. It presents TVET colleges, learnerships, direct employment, entrepreneurship and structured gap years as valid pathways, depending on a learner’s strengths and circumstances.

“There is no single ‘correct’ path after matric. TVET launches many people into successful careers. University works brilliantly for others. Some learn best through learnerships or by starting businesses.” Moitse expressed

The guide includes information on in-demand jobs, application calendars, NSFAS guidance, bursary links and contact details for South Africa’s TVET colleges.

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Although designed for learners, Kagiso Trust said the toolkit can also help parents, teachers and community members who support young people through matric and beyond.

Moitse says success is built through consistent effort, one brick at a time. “This toolkit provides the building blocks. But learners have to pick them up and use them. Nobody can build their future for them,” Moitse emphasised.

The launch forms part of Kagiso Trust’s year-long advocacy campaign promoting skills-based education and TVET pathways as responses to youth unemployment.

The Makers of the Future toolkit can be downloaded for free from the Kagiso Trust website at www.kagiso.org.za