Amid the consternation in education, the matric final exams remind everyone what it is actually all about: the education of children to become spontaneous, efficient adults who can contribute to society.
The National Senior Certificate, as matric is officially known, is a learner’s proof that they have successfully completed their schooling career. It is certainly not the end, but it does give one a good head start.
Many virtues, such as working hard, punctuality, adaptability and creativity, can all be learnt at school. These virtues may be more valuable than the learning content for the rest of their lives, but virtue and knowledge go hand in hand.
Matriculants are encouraged to prepare thoroughly, but also to look after their physical and mental wellbeing during this stressful examination period.