Worrying pass rate calls for prayer

Education department MEC Mthandeni Dlugwana is concerned that the matric pass rate has been dropping in the Ilembe district for the past two years.

This was revealed by department chief director Mbongiseni Mazibuko at the mass prayer for successful examinations held at the KwaDukuza recreational grounds last Thursday.

Poverty is one of the challenges facing pupils, especially in rural areas. However pupils were told that this not an excuse for not doing well. If they focused on their studies, nothing would stop them from passing.

“When you get to university, nobody will be interested in your poverty but they will be interested in your passing symbols,” said Mazibuko.

With only 25 days left before the start of the final examinations, Mazibuko emphasised that if the Ilembe region does not improve this year it will never improve in years to come.

The 2014 matric pass rate was 59,2 per cent, the second lowest in the province and Ilembe also got the lowest pass rates for accounting (52.3%), business studies (60.4%), economics (53.6%), mathematical literacy (63.5%), mathematics (25.9%) and physical science (45.2%).

Last year the pass rate dropped to 51.93 per cent, 8.77 per cent below the provincial average of 60.7 percent.

Motivational speaker Linda Ntuli said the     pupils should not let their background determine their performance. He said poverty should motivate them to work hard and make their families’ lives better.

“It is not about how you started but it is about how you finish. Poor or rich, you all going to be writing the same examinations, therefore get prepared and pass,” said Ntuli.

Each pupil was given a copy of Ntuli’s book called “From Sacrifice to Greatness”, a motivational book which is aimed at fostering a positive attitude in life.

KwaDukuza mayor Ricardo Mthembu said there was no God to help pupils who did not study for their exams.

“We are praying that nothing should disturb you when you are writing your exams. But to pass you need to study.”

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