Help at hand for pupils who failed matric or want better marks

The Eastern Cape celebrated the matric class of 2023’s impressive pass rate but for grade 12s who may have stumbled, not all hope is lost.

The #Matricungazibulali initiative — launched in 2019 — was started with the goal of helping pupils to improve their marks with the assistance of mentors and teachers.

The programme focuses on improving pupils’ skills in English, maths and physical science.

Lessons are held virtually in East London and Ngcobo while face-to-face assistance is provided in Gqeberha.

Nomathamsanqa Gara, the initiative’s Eastern Cape ambassador, said the programme identified matric pupils who had either failed exams or faced uncertainty about their academic future.

“This may involve collaboration with schools and educational institutions to reach a wide audience.

“Once participants are identified, they are matched with mentors based on their specific needs and challenges.”

The campaign offers career guidance and, through public support, provides information to pupils on how to pursue higher education or access financial assistance.

“The reason behind its formation was to address the concerning prevalence of suicidal thoughts and depression among young people.

“It is inspired by the education journey of the founder, Dr Sanele Gamede, who repeated grades 10, 11 and 12,” Gara said.

“This collaborative effort is intended to broaden our coverage, potentially reaching additional areas, and expanding our network of ambassadors for the programme.

“The campaign employs various channels, including social media, and media platforms such as radio, TV and newspapers, as well as [engaging] ambassadors.

“Ambassadors receive more than 10 private calls, messages, and social media interactions a day, contributing significantly to the number of youngsters reached by the campaign.”

Gara said they wanted to expand the programme to other provinces.

“We are immensely proud of the achievements in terms of this year’s pass rate.

“However, we also recognise that there is always room for improvement and growth.” Those who are interested in joining the classes can forward their CVS to Make A Mark Africa at info@makeamakeafrica.com. They can also call Gara on 083-754-9670.

The campaign offers career guidance and provides information to pupils on how to pursue higher education or access financial assistance