By Faith Hlongwane and Kwanele Khanye
Zeph Dlomo learners being tutored by MSC tutors ahead of NSC final examinations
Picture inside: Faith Hlongwane
As the 2024 National Senior Certificate (NSC) exams draw closer, learners across South Africa are feeling the mounting pressure to succeed academically and in preparing for life beyond school. From free tutoring programs to late-night study sessions, students are pulling out all the stops to ensure they’re ready for the crucial exams even as they face personal challenges and uncertainty about what lies ahead.
Asthandile Mkhize, a matric learner at a township school, expressed a mixture of gratitude and exhaustion. “School is nice because at certain times we get to have guests, like the MSC [Matric Support Campaign] who come to tutor us. They also teach us about life after matric, the opportunities that await us,” she said. The free tutoring from volunteers has been a significant help to many students. Asiphile added, “Sometimes the strategies that your teacher uses differ from the tutor, so the tutors teach us in ways that are much more captivating.” However, she also noted the immense pressure students face, especially when it comes to applications for post-school opportunities. “There is too much work. I wish we could get a break, but I have many pending applications that I hope will be successful once I finish matric.”
Hlumela Thobeka Zakaza, another Grade 12 learner at Hillgrove High School, shared her own challenges, particularly balancing family obligations with academic pressure. “I don’t get enough time to study because I get sent to do a lot of errands,” said Hlumela. “I have a big family, so I must wait for all of them to go to bed, which means I study late and wake up early. I don’t get enough sleep.” Despite her fears and personal struggles, she remains determined to succeed. “I am not ready for the final examinations, but I feel fit. I’m scared to face life outside school, but I won’t let fear limit my ability to grow.”
Akhona Shangase, a third-year Bachelor of Education student at UKZN and tutor with the MSC program, emphasized the importance of well-prepared lesson plans and understanding students’ needs. “My experience at Zeph Dlomo High was remarkable,” Akhona said. “As the learners were a bit challenging, it’s important to have a well-planned lesson and know your story so learners feel a sense of trust and hope in you as a teacher.” The MSC program has allowed tutors like Shangase to grow in content knowledge while also offering valuable support to matric learners.
On the teaching front, Minenhle Khanyile, a Geography teacher at Lakewood College of South Africa, has already completed the syllabus and is focused on revision. “To get ready for the final exam, we have a plan in place. I’ve started doing one-on-one tutorials, revising previous papers, and we’re also doing camps where we have all-night sessions,” she explained.
Educators and learners alike recognise the importance of thorough preparation as the exams loom. The KZN MEC for Education, Mr. Sipho Hlomuka, has briefed the media on the province’s readiness for the administration of the 2024 NSC examinations.
Despite the pressures and personal struggles, learners are striving to balance academic commitments and their future ambitions, supported by dedicated teachers, tutors, and community programs. As they inch closer to their final exams, the shared goal is clear; success both in the exams and in the life that follows.
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