Pretoria - As matric pupils sit for their second paper today, President Jacob Zuma has added his voice to those who have wished the Class of 2010 good luck.
Zuma said it had been many years of hard work, commitment, dedication and resilience to reach this important milestone.
"Our young people have already walked a long road to reach this point in their schooling career. They have done very well, and as government we join parents and educators in congratulating them, and wish them well on this final hurdle," said Zuma on Monday.
He cautioned parents, educators and society in general not to pressurise the young people as this sometimes has catastrophic consequences.
"Some even take their own lives if they do not pass matric, as the messages from parents, neighbours, educators and the media tend to make them believe that failing Grade 12 is the end of the world, when it is a setback that can still be addressed through discipline and dedication," said Zuma.
The President also urged the youth to take advantage of the various post-Grade 12 learning opportunities in the country, from universities, further education and training colleges and a host of others.
"Let us all encourage and support the Grade 12 learners. We wish all our children success and a prosperous future."
Messages of support have been pouring in for the 2010 matrics, from government ministers, parents, educators and others.
About 642 000 students are registered for this year's national senior certificate examination, an increase of almost 23000 on last year.
Results will be released on 6 January.
