Matrics in final lap of school race
STUDY hard, but study smart too – this is the message shared with Grade 12 pupils at a rural school in Tabankulu.
Dumsi Secondary School recently hosted a motivational day and awards ceremony for its 55 matrics, who started their final exams this week.
The school’s head of entertainment, Wandile Ayliss, said the school hosted a number of social and academic events this year to motivate pupils and make school fun.
At its most recent event, trophies and certificates were awarded to high performers at a brunch prepared by their teachers.
The school invited motivational speakers to talk to them.
KwaBhaca district’s English subject adviser and guest speaker, Andile Tantsi, advised the Class of 2017 to remain focused during the exams, disallow distractions and manage their time well.
Principal Siyabulela Mbixane said the school’s matric pass rate had made a huge jump lately and finally broke the 50% threshold last year.
“Dumsi for the past many years has been performing badly, the results were always under 50% but from last year things changed and we hope to keep it that way. From 67% in 2016, we are aiming for 85% and above this year,” he said.
The school had started a revision programme for pupils, where they started school as early as 7am, went for break at 4pm and came back to school from 5pm to 8pm.
Classes are also held on weekends and teachers are available after school hours.
Matric candidate Portia Manqana, who achieved the highest distinction, level 7, in her trial English exam, said although she was nervous, she was well prepared and ready to write.
The young woman, who has been performing well in all her subjects, said she was looking forward to completing her high school career.
“I will give it all my best to achieve my goals,” said Manqana.