He said the future of the city looks promising if the matric results are anything to go by.
“The future of the country looks bright.
“We have watched how, over the years, generations and generations of our children have excelled in their matric exams – and this can only translate to a better and much improved South Africa,” said Gungubele.
He said education is the answer to most of the problems faced by South Africa, as it provides clarity on issues.
“This is why our forebears made it their business that we do not lose focus as a country, even through the difficult times of the struggle for liberation,” said Gungubele.
The mayor praised the Ekurhuleni South District for winning the most improved district category.
The district achieved 83.1 per cent – a 3.35 per cent improvement on the previous year.
The mayor believes that the results prove that the youth now understand the importance of education.
“You have done us proud and we are extremely proud of you,” said the mayor.
“Considering that in 2009 the matric pass rate was hovering at 61 per cent, it is amazing how the results have improved over years.”
The mayor encouraged those who did not do well to not lose hope but rather pick up the pieces and give it another try.
“Remember that it is not about how many times you fail, but rather how many times you are able to stand up after every fall,” he said.
Gungubele said the city will continue to look at increasing the bursary fund to accommodate more young people.
In 2014, the intake was 464, increasing to 810 for 2015, at a cost of R13.8-million.
You may also be interested in: A breakdown of Benoni schools’ 2015 matric results
