In a few days the matric class of 2025 will get their results for the hard work they put in.
Leading up to the announcement of the matric results on Tuesday 13 February, many young people are stressed about the outcome of their Gr. 12 final exams.
Qwelane Bukelwa, director of Inclusive and Special Needs Education at the Free State Provincial Office, says the department has a strong team that is responsible for psychosocial support of learners.
“Former matriculants are often very stressed about passing. The stress about results is not limited to those who worry about low results, but often affects learners who are aiming for high marks or a bachelor’s pass and worry about reaching their goals.
“There are so many expectations. Many learners are in doubt about the future and how their results will affect their plans,” Bukelwa says. “It is only natural to feel this uncertainty about the results.”
Disappointment is not defeat
She advises these young adults to talk to someone about their fears. “Parents should be on the lookout for children who are very anxious or withdrawn or who voice feelings of hopelessness. Parents should create a safe and non-judgemental environment for their children so that they can talk openly about their fears and worries. Adults should also listen to what is not being said.”
Bukelwa says learners should not resort to self-harm and the abuse of substances like alcohol and drugs as coping mechanisms. This only leads to destructive behaviour.
“We at the department realise that there is a lot of competition amongst peers. Social media causes a lot of pressure, with teenagers comparing themselves to others. This leads to an increase in pressures and has a great toll on teenagers emotionally.”
She said that is why education departments have social workers and psychologists to assist learners.
“Remember that there are options for those who do not get the results they were aiming for. If you miss the mark, it is not the end. There are opportunities like the second chance matric programme. We do not want learners who do not do as well as they wanted, to leave the system. There are opportunities to improve your marks if you need to.
“To fail does not define you. You only fail if you do not try and try again. Remember that you are a winner just for making it to Gr. 12.”
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