Cape Town - While matric learners are nearing the halfway mark for the 2021 NSC exams, Education MEC Debbie Schäfer has already cautioned pupils to be cautious when it comes to matric rage events.
Schäfer has appealed to all matric learners to carefully consider the risks of attending matric rage and other social events at this time.
“Last year, a large cluster of cases 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 so returned home taking Covid-19 with them.
“Unfortunately, many of these events take place during the matric exams, rather than after them,” Schäfer said.
“This creates a very real risk that a learner might get Covid and miss some of their final exams if they become very ill – something that will have a major impact on them next year as they will only be able to write again in June.”
Schäfer added that they also run the risk of spreading the virus to family, friends, and classmates. She urge learners and their parents to consider whether these and other social events are worth the risk.
“Yes, we may have lower numbers of active cases in our province and country at present, but we know from the experience of other countries that it is only a matter of time before another wave arrives.
“We must do everything we 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,” Schäfer said.
“But they are also entering adulthood and must accept the responsibility to keep themselves, their families and their friends safe.”
She advised matrics that with them being in the home stretch, and the exams nearly over, they should stay focused on their exams right now as it “is an investment in your own future”.
“There will be plenty of time for celebrating later once you have completed your exams. All the best for the remaining exams.”