“Education is the key to success and it all begins with the examination you are about to sit for,” he said.
“You have done well to get where you are in life right now and I am sure that you know that this exam marks another milestone in your efforts to carving the future that you wish for yourself as an adult South African.
“There may have been some minor interruptions as a result of service delivery protests in some areas, but in the main I know we as government with the help of community leaders in such areas moved swiftly to ensure that there was very minimal effects to education especially the matriculants.
“It is based on this fact that I am confident that as the Class of 2014 you have what it takes to better the work of your predecessors and continue to improve our pass rate.”
Gungubele appealed to the youngsters to work even harder throughout the examination process despite challenges that may threaten their success on the road ahead.
He urged parents and teachers to give their children all the necessary support and make sure that they remain focused all the way.
“We must continue to help our children realize and comprehend the fact that education is the key to the future prospects of South Africa,” said Gungubele.
“The more educated we are the brighter the future of the country going forward.
“Through education we shall triumph against the triple challenges facing our country – unemployment, poverty and inequality.”
A former teacher himself, Gungubele congratulated teachers and learners for their hard work and dedication throughout the year adding that ‘this is the time for all that hard to bear fruit’.
“Educators have a very challenging job and despite the hardships that they come across year in and year out, they continue to do a sterling job,” he said.
Gungubele believes with all stakeholders working together with government to improve the level of education in this country, the ultimate objective of a high standard of education for the country shall be realised.
