VANDERBIJLPARK – Hundreds of female matric pupils were sent off in style as they prepare to face the final exams.
The pupils, drawn from various schools across the Sedibeng West District, wrapped up a five-day camp at El-Shaddai Christian School with a candlelight prayer ceremony on October 7.
The event was organised by the office of Emfuleni Local Municipality (ELM) Executive Mayor Hassan Mako as part of efforts to spiritually and emotionally prepare the pupils for the matric finals.
The school hall was packed with singing, dancing and prayer as pupils, educators, pastors, faith-based organisations and government officials gathered for the special evening.
Among those attending were Sedibeng District Education Acting Director Victor Maseko, local pastors, representatives of faith-based organisations, Emfuleni MMC for Social Development Sipho Radebe and Mayor Mako.
Motivational speakers also took turns encouraging the pupils to remain focused and believe in themselves.
Sipho Mkhwanazi, a popular motivational speaker, told the pupils that their circumstances should never determine their future.
“Your background shouldn’t determine who you are set to be. Never give up. When life gets tough, take a different shot at it.”
Fellow motivational speaker Nozi Letswoenyeho urged the pupils not to allow their results to define them.
“You are going to make it. You are not what your results say you are. Fear not. We wrote this exam and passed it. You are going to make it. Education is the only route that will put you where you want to be. You are a national asset. The world awaits.”
Representing the education sector, Emmah Welcome wished the matrics good luck as they prepare to set foot in different exam halls.
“I want to wish you well as you are about to write your final papers. You have persevered through the pressures for many years; you can’t lose the ball now.”
She encouraged the pupils to remain focused on their goals and look forward to receiving their results in January.
“Keep reminding yourself about what January 12 holds for you, as you will be receiving your statement of results. Work hard and make sure that when names are being called, yours is also called. We wish you all the best,” she said.
Delivering a keynote address, Mayor Mako said the pupils were not walking the difficult road alone.
“We are here to pray and reflect as the matric finals draw closer. You are not just the future; you are the architects of it. Preparations for matric finals are not easy; that is why we are here to offer spiritual upliftment and support,” he said.
Mako urged the pupils to remain focused and resilient when they finally sit for their exams.
“When you sit in those exams, always remember that you carry the hopes of those who support you,” he said.
