Matric learners should be given ample time to perform to their fullest potential.

Written by: Tasha Siziba

More than 920 000 matric pupils wrote their first matric exam paper on Monday. Matric exam stress can be severe, but there are strategies parents can do to help their kids get through this period.

Parents can alleviate their children’s anxiety by not imposing their own stress on them while also addressing other academic pressures they may have.
Education activist Hendrick Makaneta has urged parents and communities to provide all necessary support for the 2023 matric class.

Makaneta emphasizes the importance of monitoring a child’s behavior to assess if they have become overwhelmed by exam stress, as not coping can negatively impact their performance.

He said, despite the pandemic’s challenging conditions, this cohort of learners, who initially stayed at home and later followed a revised teaching plan, is now prepared for the final stage of the schooling system.

“We urge parents and other members of our communities to support the class of 2023 as they prosecute the most difficult struggle to create a future for themselves. Parents and communities should not put an additional burden on the shoulders of learners by giving them extra household duties. For the next 30 days, let our learners be allowed to focus only on their studies and be exempted from washing dishes or doing any other work within their communities.”

Makaneta said government should also stand ready to provide the necessary psycho Social support services as and when needed by our learners as they begin the NSC examinations.

Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga says provinces have procured backup generators to mitigate power cuts. She commended pupils for their resilience and dedication.

However, Makaneta further states how South Africa requires high-frequency leadership to address future issues, and the class of 2023 can contribute to achieving this goal.

Listen to your children without judgement.