Deputy President Paul Mashatile announced that the South African Government has awarded 50 bursaries to some of Kwa-Mpumuza’s top performing matriculants for the class of 2024 on Saturday in KwaZulu-Natal.
Mashatile made his remarks at the Kwa-Mpumuza fourth Annual Matric Excellence Awards in Pietermaritzburg.
KZN was the second highest performing province, achieving a 89.5% pass rate for the matric class of 2024.
Mashatile mentioned that the bursary scheme funds beneficiaries enrolled in public higher learning institutions, including TVET Colleges.
The bursaries were sponsored by the National Skills Fund that is in partnership with the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS).
“This initiative is supported by the National Skills Fund through the department, and aims to bridge the gap in access to education, particularly for the top students we are celebrating today,” said Mashatile.
The deputy president thanked teachers and parents, who were dedicated and showed immense support for the class of 2024 through a tough academic year.
“To all the educators and parents, whose guidance and encouragement made these successes possible, thank you.
“Your determination and sacrifice are not taken for granted, may you one day, through these children enjoy the fruits of your labour,” he said.
Mashatile encouraged those starting their higher education careers to be resilient and thrive in their academics.
“A university degree or qualification is a treasure that no one can take away from you, and it is a key to many closed doors!
“I encourage you today to dream big dreams. Do not be discouraged by your background, and the challenges that you have gone through.
“You deserve the best that life has to offer and as a government, we are determined to support you to make your dreams possible,” he said.
Mashatile shared a few pearls of wisdom with the class of 2025, urging them to stay away from substance and alcohol abuse, and early sexual behaviours which lead to a spike in cases of teenage pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases.
Mashatile’s concerns come after the KZN Health Department reported that three 15-year-old girls had given birth last Christmas.
The department decried that teenage pregnancy is spiralling in the province, and therefore called for action on statutory rape.
“As a country we rely on you to build a better tomorrow. Stay disciplined and say no to bad influences,” said Mashatile.
The issue of mental health was another highlight of the event, as Mashatile pleaded with learners to seek help when faced with challenges.
“Depression and other mental health illnesses are real, do not bottle things up. Talk to your teachers, RCLs, counsellors, church, and other community leaders, you do not have to suffer alone.
“As the government, we are committed to supporting the development of the youth, because these are the future leaders of South Africa,” said Mashatile.
He furthermore shared a few learning tips with this year’s matric class.
“Focus on your studies and do not allow yourselves to fall into peer pressure. Time management and discipline is key.
“Focus on mental and spiritual health because this balance will help you to maintain emotional stability and resilience. Keep social connection with loved ones, exercise and pray,” said Mashatile.
The Star