By Alicia Mmashakana
The government will make 50 bursaries available to deserving students in KwaMpumuza in KwaZulu-Natal who have been accepted into public institutions of higher learning, including TVET colleges, according to Deputy President Paul Mashatile.
He was speaking at the Annual Matric Excellence Awards ceremony for the area on Friday. It recognises the academic achievements of top matriculants in 2024 in 16 schools across the Mpumuza traditional authority.
Mashatile said the bursaries would be made available through the National Skills Fund in collaboration with National Student Financial Aid Scheme.
“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,” he said.
He told the matriculants that they were now in charge of their lives.
“Do your best in university to secure a brighter and prosperous future. A university degree or qualification is a treasure that no one can take away from you, and it is key to opening many closed doors,” he said.
“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 congratulated the Class of 2024 in KZN for being the second-highest performing province with an 89.5% pass rate and said the government was looking forward to this year’s Grade 12 learners maintaining and increasing the standard.
Mashatile encouraged them to focus on their studies and not give into peer pressure.
“As a country, we rely on you to build a better tomorrow. Stay disciplined and say no to bad influences,” he said.
He also spoke directly to parents whose children may not have passed this time.
“Please know that this is not the end of their journey. Every setback is a setup for a stronger comeback. Your love and encouragement can make all the difference in helping them find their way forward.”
Mashatile said it was important that the community ensured that every child found the strength to try again and achieve remarkable things.
“To all leaders present let us leave here today united in our commitment to the success of every child in Kwa-Mpumuza and beyond. Whether they pass or not, every learner is part of our shared future, and they all deserve our love, guidance and unwavering belief in their potential.”
INSIDE EDUCATION
