Matrics who failed exams urged not to give up hope
AS HUNDREDS of thousands of matriculants wait with bated breath for their results tomorrow, East London psychologist Sheryl Maastrecht has advised those who fail not to bottle up their feelings.
“Speak to people about how you feel, whether it’s friends or relatives, as long as they are willing to listen,” Maastrecht said.
Department of basic education spokesman Elijah Mhlanga also urged those who did not not make it not to throw in the towel, as a second opportunity was available.
“Pupils who failed two or more subjects are able to register for supplementary exams that will be written in February,” he said.
Most matriculants in East London were in a state of suspense, awaiting the matric results which will be published in a special edition of the Daily Dispatch tomorrow.
Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga will announce the national matric pass rate this evening.
Jodene Esbend from John Bisseker Senior Secondary School said she was nervous and scared.
“I don’t know what to expect, but I have tried my best and now all I can do is hope for the best,” she said.
Esbend has already been accepted at the University of Fort Hare to study for a degree in psychology.
Chanteline Morrison, also from John Bisseker Senior Secondary School, said her entire future depended on the outcome of her matric results.
“I have never been so stressed in my life. I have worked hard throughout my matric year and I believe I will reap what I have sown,” she said.
Morrison hopes to become a traffic officer. She said passing matric would be the best gift she could give her parents, who had supported her throughout her academic year.
Nwabisa Nteleni from Unathi High School said passing matric will mean one step closer to ending her impoverished living conditions.
“Seeing my name in the paper will be like a dream come true for me and my family,” she said.
Nteleni said she hoped to join the police force.
These matriculants, like many others, will be waking up as early as possible to get a copy of the Dispatch tomorrow, hoping to see their names in the paper.
Maastrecht also advised those who will be starting matric this year to prepare well for exams throughout the year to avoid any last-moment stress at the end of the year.
The national matric pass rate for 2012 was 73.9%, an improvement of 3.7% from 2011’s pass rate of 70.2% nationally.
Last year the province managed to get a pass rate of 61.6%, and this year provincial education boss Mthunywa Ngonzo was adamant that the province would reach its 70% target. —