Western Cape Minister of Education, Debbie Schäfer has appealed to all matric learners to carefully consider the risks of attending the matric rage and other post-matric exam social events at this time of year.
Speaking halfway through the NSC 2021 exams, she said: “I urge learners and their parents to consider whether these and other social events are worth the risk.”
Last year, a large cluster of cases of Covid-19 developed as a result of matrics attending rage festival events in KwaZulu-Natal. Many of those who tested positive had travelled to the coast from Gauteng and brought Covid-19 home with them.
Many rages also take place during exams, rather than after them. Schäfer says this creates a very real risk that a learner might contract Covid-19 and miss some of their final exams if they become ill.
“Yes, we may have lower numbers of active cases in our province and country at present,” Schäfer said, “but we know from the experience of other countries that it is only a matter of time before another wave arrives.” She added the matrics must do everything they can to avoid contributing to an increase in the number of cases.
“It has been a tough two years for our Class of 2021, and I understand that learners want to enjoy the end of the matric year with their friends.” She says they are also entering adulthood and must accept the responsibility to keep themselves, their families and their friends safe.
“Matrics, you are on the home stretch and the exams are nearly over. Staying focused on your exams right now is an investment in your own future. There will be plenty of time for celebrating later once you have completed your exams.”
