The Department of Social Development is urging parents and members of the public to give all the necessary support to learners who did not pass their 2019 matric examinations.
MEC for Social Development, Nkakareng Rakgoale, said last week that support systems have been put in place to assist learners who did not pass their 2019 examinations.
“Parents who might notice signs of depression in their children who did not pass their matric exams and other lower grades, are advised to approach social workers who will be able to provide them with psycho-social support services.
These are trained professionals who are able to provide all the necessary support to people who are experiencing difficulties in their lives,”
Rakgoale said the Department of Basic Education has introduced the Second Chance Matric Support Programme which is aimed at giving a second chance to learners to write their exams again. Learners are encouraged to register at their schools or district offices.
“It is important to indicate that while we are celebrating those who passed their matric, let’s also focus on those who did not make it as there is always a second chance for them to go back to school and improve on their marks.
Also read:Counselling is available for matrics that need it
Meanwhile, the department has opened a national command centre where social workers are available to offer counselling to children who did not make it.
“The department urges matriculants and their parents to make use of the command centre.
It also appeals to parents to look for signs of depression expressed by their children so that interventions can be sought early to help the youngsters deal with the outcome of their examinations,” said the national spokesperson of the department, Lumka Oliphant.
The command centre can be reached toll free on 0800 428 428.
Callers can also request a social worker to contact them by dialling *120*7867# (free) from any cell phone.
Deaf callers can also interact with the centre using Skype. Just add ‘HELPMEGBV’ to the contacts and a social worker will accept the invite and call back.
Oliphant added that the Department of Social Development and National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) are working together with the Department of Basic Education, to ensure that social grant beneficiaries are automatically accepted by NSFAS when they apply for financial assistance.
