With the end-of-year matric examinations in full swing, pupils have been urged to take things easy, stop stressing and know that God is in control. The message of hope was delivered at the United National Baptist Church, in Luyoloville, Gugulethu, on Sunday October 15, during a mass prayer for those writing their matric examination. The church said township pupils were studying under difficult conditions and had to be encouraged to lift their spirits.
More than 800 matrics started their national senior certificates exams on Monday. According to the Western Cape Education Department 7 807 are full time candidates and 272 are part time candidates.
The church said it was confident there would be an improvement in this year’s matric pass rate.
Reverend Xolile Ndlungwana said young people faced difficult times on the streets and at schools.
“We want to build a healthy nation. We need to chase the devil away from our young leaders.
“We expect leaders, teachers, lawyers and many other things from our youth.
“But we have seen on the news how pupils were sexually abused at a certain school in Gauteng,” he said referring to the news of sexual abuse of 87 pupils.
“You will find out more kids are still going to coming forward,” he said.
Mr Ndlungwana called on all Christians and other believers to pray for pupils.
Parent and a churchgoer Thozamile Qhakamfana said pupils should be encouraged. “As parents we have a job to keep them focused on their books. We always ought to develop their minds and be honest to them about the things they should do or not do.
“Now it is time for them to listen to their teachers and put cellphones away. “They need to stick to their books and know the time for phones will come after this crucial work they are faced with,” he said.
Grade 12 pupil Nthabiseng Ngcukana said before going to the service, she had still felt a lack of confidence, but she felt better afterward. “I hope things will go my way. It has not been an easy year for me. I came here with doubts. But I must say I feel more confident now. When I saw pupils from others schools, I was really happy and I am going to pass,” she said.