Varsity chaos gives matrics more to fret over
The ongoing violence at several South African universities is not only worrying students as the prospect of a lost year looks increasingly real, but also matric pupils, who fear what may be in store for them in the new year. Some are looking at studying abroad to avoid the local crisis. JOLENE MARRIAH asked the views of pupils from two schools
Southlands Secondary School in Chatsworth:
Jadin Somiah, 17, of Bayview, said he was “quite stressed and annoyed” at the recent events at the universities across the country.
Jadin plans to study medicine or actuarial science at UCT, Wits, Pretoria or UKZN.
“Right now Wits is the worst. The strikes are violent.”
He said studying for the matric finals and wondering what he is going to do next year has been stressful.
“I have not been concentrating, wondering what’s going to happen.”
He said this concern was shared by many of his fellow pupils.
Studying in India and China looked “promising”, Jadin said, adding he would be exploring the option further.
Aarti Haripersad, 16, of Queensburgh, said she had been talking about the issues at universities with friends and family for the past few days.
“Things are really bad at campuses and it upsets me.”
Aarti plans to study environmental law at UCT or UKZN.
“I feel these strikes could impact our first year, we could start late or begin a whole year later.”
She said going abroad might be an option.
“I have applied to (SA) universities and have received no feedback because so much is going on. Administration is drowning and our applications are not being considered.”
Camrin Moodeliar, 17, of Bayview, said the issue had been playing on his mind.
“I have given the issue of studying next year some thought.
“With regard to the recent strikes, we have three issues: take a gap year if things don’t stabilise, find a job for the year or go abroad.
“The cons with not going immediately into studies is that pupils can become lazy. As for studying abroad, it is only for those who can afford to.”
Camrin said he had been worried and his father had considered the option of his studying abroad.
Ridge Park College, Durban:
Laila Bera, 17, of Bonela, said that with a short time left to the matric final exams, the university crisis has been added stress to pupils.
“It affects us indirectly as we are going to be attending university next year. If lectures are postponed, then it means we could start late.”
Laila said many pupils had been looking at the options of studying abroad or going to private colleges.
“The other major concern is the violence during these protests.
“Libraries have been burnt and these are resources we will require.”
She said while she agreed with the student movement, she did not believe resorting to violence was the answer.
Samantha Mfeka, 17, of Southgate, said she had been worried about starting university on time, and the lack of resources.
“There are many things for pupils to consider. With matric exams around the corner, this is an added stress for us.”
Samantha plans to study aviation or occupational therapy.
“I have to admit I have started looking at campuses abroad. Everyone is talking about it.”