Pretoria - Despite the service delivery protests earlier in the year, which disrupted education in some parts of Ekurhuleni, mayor Mondli Gungubele is optimistic that the grade 12 learners will do well in the upcoming final exams.
Gungubele said the city had all the confidence that the crop of learners they had would do well and claim their rightful place in society.
Sending his well wishes to Ekurhuleni Grade 12 learners on Wednesday, Gungubele said the city was fully and firmly behind them every step of the way.
"As you sharpen your pencils and dust off your pens in preparation for your first exam paper, make sure you remain focused and give the exam your best. This is your turn to stand up and be counted," Gungubele said.
In support of those affected by the disruptions, Gungubele said the metro's Library and Information Services extended its library hours a few months ago in some of its libraries to accommodate matriculants.
"We also firmly believe and hope that all the measures put in place by the authorities and the various schools towards catching up will yield the expected results in those areas that were affected," Gungubele said.
He, however, emphasised that the strongest motivation should be within the learners, driven by the desire and determination to do well in their studies so that they can be equipped to take advantage of the opportunities that are open to them.
Last year's matric pass rate in Ekurhuleni was 82.5%, an achievement Gungubele said should serve as a motivation to the class of 2012.
Zitikeni Secondary School in Tembisa was named the best performer of all priority schools in Gauteng in terms of learners qualifying for bachelor's degree admissions.
This year's matric finals officially get underway on 22 October. - SAnews.gov.za
